HC Deb 10 November 1947 vol 444 cc16-7
37. Mr. Butcher

asked the Minister of Food whether, in view of the reduced rations, he will arrange for frequent surveys of the health and nutrition of the civilian population and for the publications of the reports of such surveys.

Mr. Strachey

Surveys of health are the responsibility of the Ministry of Health, but the Ministry of Food has been carrying out a monthly survey of food consumed in the home since 1941, and will continue to do so. A report on the survey results from 1941 to 1946 is now being prepared for publication. Further reports will be published from time to time. Ad hoc surveys are also arranged to investigate current problems and difficulties.

Mr. Butcher

In view of the increased absenteeism from work and the wide concern over food in this country, will the right hon. Gentleman arrange for this survey to be made public at the earliest possible date?

Mr. Strachey

That is one particular survey; we do publish the results of some surveys.

Mr. J. S. C. Reid

Can the Minister say whether the surveys are to be made monthly, and will he see that there are regular monthly publications of the results at the earliest possible date?

Mr. Strachey

These surveys have been made monthly since 1941, and their results are published from time to time. That is the system which will continue.

Mr. Reid

Will the Minister publish the results regularly?.

Mr. Hastings

Is my right hon. Friend aware that to publish surveys of health too frequently may give rise to quite wrong impressions, because there are so many factors involved?

Mr. Strachey

Surveys of health are not my responsibility. These are surveys of food consumption.