§ 16. Mr. Skeffington-Lodgeasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs for how long he expects it will be necessary to maintain the reduction of the bread ration from 5 lb. to 3 lb. weekly in the British zone of Germany; and whether the hardship thus inflicted can be offset by stepping up supplies of other food. stuffs.
§ Mr. BevinThe reduction which was adopted on the recommendation of the German Executive Committee as a prudent measure during a period of low stocks, and which applies to both the British and the United States zones, has at present been authorised only for the first week of the ration period. It is hoped that the full issue will be made up later in May. In the past potatoes have been used when necessary to supplement shortages of grain, but these are also in short supply.
§ Mr. Skeffington-LodgeWhile there are these shortages, will my right hon. Friend take all steps to make clear to the German people the reason for them?
§ 17. Mr. Skeffington-Lodgeasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether ha is aware that supplies of milk to civilians in the British zone are almost 1927 nil; and that meat, fats and potatoes are in such short supply that the normal ration cannot be honoured; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BevinMilk has been in short supply in the British zone but it has been possible to meet the needs of priority consumers with a fair degree of success. The position should improve with the start of the new grazing season. Difficulties in providing full rations of meat, fats and potatoes have been largely due to the failure of the local German authorities to collect and distribute these foodstuffs equitably throughout the British and American zones. The matter is under consideration in conjunction with the American authorities.