HC Deb 19 November 1947 vol 444 cc1142-3
54. Mr. Collins

asked the Minister of Food whether, in order to sustain, as far as possible, the diet of families with young children, he will increase from 1½ lbs. to 3 lbs. the potato ration of infants under five years of age.

Mr. Strachey

We have tried to meet the needs of the family with young children by giving an additional 7 ozs. of bread to all children and young people between the ages of five and 18. Consumer surveys indicate that, in fact, children under five do not eat as many potatoes as adults.

Mr. Collins

While I appreciate that children under five do not eat as many potatoes as adults, may I ask if the Minister is not aware that rations in all families are pooled and that in order to give the younger children sufficient others go without? Would he not, therefore, consider this concession?

Mr. Strachey

Yes, Sir. I will certainly consider it, and if and when further potatoes are available we will increase this and other allowances.

Mr. Piratin

Does the right hon. Gentleman appreciate that children over five who go to school, generally eat meals at school, and, therefore, the gap between the under fives and the over fives is greater than one and a half pounds? Will he consider the matter further in accordance with the proposal made by my hon. Friend?

Mr. Strachey

I will certainly consider it.

55. Mr. Collins

asked the Minister of Food if he will indicate how the estimated crop of eight million tons of potatoes from the 1947 harvest will be disposed of, apart from the approximate requirement of four million tons for the domestic ration.

Mr. Strachey

I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given to the right hon. and learned Member for Hillhead (Mr. J. S. C. Reid) on 12th November.