HC Deb 06 August 1947 vol 441 c1461
53. Mr. Quintin Hogg

asked the Minister of Food, whether his attention has been drawn to complaints by Oxford traders of the difficulties in which they have been put in honouring the extra sugar ration by the failure of his Department to secure the supply of sufficient stocks in time; and what action he is taking to meet their difficulties.

Mr. Strachey

No Oxford traders have complained to my Department about sugar deliveries, but it is true that the two recent bonus issues and the increase in the ration have placed a strain on transport. My Department has dealt with such difficulties as promptly as possible, and I feel certain that housewives would rather have their extra sugar a few days late, if this is unavoidable, rather than be deprived of it.

Mr. Hogg

When the right hon. Gentleman says that no Oxford traders have complained to his Department, can it be that he has not received the letter of complaint which I myself sent on to him from an Oxford trader?

Mr. Strachey

I suppose the answer is intended to imply, other than the complaints on which this Question is based.

Mr. Drayson

Can the Minister say whether the bonus issue is subject to a tax?