HC Deb 26 February 1947 vol 433 cc2073-4
63. Mrs. Jean Mann

asked the Minister of Food if he will state, approximately, the number of shell eggs likely to be allocated to non-priority classes between 1st March and the end of June.

Dr. Summerskill

On the assumption that more favourable weather is experienced in Europe from March onwards, we expect to be able from March onwards, we expect to be able to distribute 27 eggs per head to non-priority consumers during the period March to June inclusive.

Lieut.-Commander Braithwaite

Have any of the eggs been issued to the audiences watching "Itma"?

Mrs. Mann

I take it that that number is very much less than what we had anticipated and less than we had for the same period last year. Can the hon. Lady give any reason why the number should be less?

Dr. Summerskill

In the same period last year the number was 30. I would remind my hon. Friend that it has been difficult to get animal feedingstuffs this year. We propose to import more eggs, and in that case we may be able to meet the defiency.