HC Deb 21 April 1948 vol 449 c1813
52. Mr. Peter Freeman

asked the Minister of Food whether he is aware that a small supply of tea has been refused by the local food officer for the monthly mothers' meeting at St. Andrew's Church at Lliswens, Newport; and whether, in view of the fact that such supplies are available for youth and other organisations, he will authorise a supply for this purpose.

Dr. Summerskill

My right hon. Friend is not prepared to make tea available for this purpose. The circumstances are quite different from those of youth clubs and similar organisations.

Mr. Freeman

Why this discrimination against mothers?

Dr. Summerskill

We are not discriminating against mothers. We are prepared to give allowances of certain foods to women who meet together to make garments for charitable institutions, but we are not prepared to allocate food to any group of women who wish to have an occasional chat.