HC Deb 16 October 1946 vol 427 cc901-2
82. Mrs. Castle

asked the Minister of Food if he will give an assurance that when wheat supplies improve he will lower the extraction of flour to 80 per cent. before abolishing bread rationing.

Dr. Summerskill

My right hon. Friend cannot give the assurance asked for, but I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply on this matter given on 8th October to the hon. Member for South Edinburgh (Sir W. Darling), of which I am sending my hon. Friend a copy.

Mrs. Castle

In view of the fact that bread rationing has not caused the hardship so gloomily prognosticated by the Opposition, and that poultry-keepers and fanners generally are urgently in need of foodstuffs, would the hon. Lady give consideration to this suggestion with a view first to bringing relief to where it is most needed?

Dr. Summerskill

As the hon. Lady knows, we have recently reduced the extraction rate, and, of course, we shall consider this again when bread rationing is abolished.

Mr. Walkden

Will the hon. Lady give an assurance to the House that the conditions which prevail in certain European countries, where they are able to enjoy a very white loaf indeed by comparison with ours, will be restored here without delay?