HC Deb 13 December 1948 vol 459 cc817-8
19. Mr. Turton

asked the Minister of Food what is the present allocation of sugar and fats to B.W.B. Cakes, Ltd., of Jarrow; how long has this firm been trading; and by whom the allocations given were made.

Mr. Strachey

The allocations to this firm, which has been manufacturing since 14th June, 1948, are made on my authority. One reason why the allocation was made was in order to help the establishment of new industries in this once acutely distressed area. I regret I cannot disclose particulars of individual businesses.

Mr. Turton

Would it not be more satisfactory if these allocations were dealt with by the divisional food officer who makes the allocations in the district? It would not cause so much suspicion as this case has aroused.

Mr. Strachey

Hon. Members are very often pressing me to act as a court of appeal against local allocations, and in such cases I have to decide whether there should be such a court of appeal. This is one of them.

Mr. Turton

Surely, in this case no decision was made by the local food office? Has not the Minister thrust it aside and made the allocation?

Mr. Strachey

Whenever a matter is taken out of the hands of the local food office—and I agree that these instances should be minimized—a decision has to be taken at headquarters, and I think that there were good and sufficient reasons, which I can give the hon. Member, for this allocation.