§ 30. Mr. Gammansasked the Minister of Food how much he spent in 1946 on Press advertisements; and what percentage of the sum was represented by advertisements giving menus.
§ Mr. StracheyThe amount spent on Press advertising of all kinds in 1946 was £361,710. None of the 52 "Food Facts" advertisements appearing in newspapers during the year contained a menu. Of the 25 advertisements in women's magazines, only one included a menu, as part of its advice on the planning of family meals.
§ Mr. GammansIs the Minister satisfied that he is justified in spending this enormous sum of money on advertisements at the present time?
§ Mr. StracheyYes, Sir. The sum has been considerably reduced in comparison with that spent under my predecessors. I think that these advertisements, in general, have had a very beneficial effect on the situation, and on the skill of housewives.
§ Mrs. Jean MannDoes my right hon. Friend really believe that there is only one paper running a menu? Is it not the case that a great many papers run something like menus under the heading of "How to make the most of your rations"; and does not he think that it is time he gave the whole thing a rest, as the ordinary housewife has had so many menus over the past six years that her files must be overflowing with them whilst her cupboards are bare?
§ Mr. StracheyMy hon. Friend is confusing menus with recipes.