HC Deb 15 December 1948 vol 459 cc1212-3
53. Mr. Donner

asked the Minister of Food whether his attention has been drawn to complaints that the Andover Co-operative Society has failed to honour, on several occasions, the sugar ration of certain customers to which they are entitled; that the management, while admitting that supplies have been received, have refused any explanation of their failure to supply these customers; that the local food office has been informed, but has declined to interfere; and what steps does he propose to take in the matter.

Dr. Summerskill

There was a temporary shortage of sugar supplies at the Andover Co-operative Society in November due to more members exercising the option to take sugar instead of preserves. The food office, when advised, made all necessary arrangements for the supply of sugar and the five members who complained were told to re-apply for their ration. There has been no further complaint and so far as I am aware all the members' rations have been supplied.

Mr. Donner

Is the hon. Lady aware that the manager himself informed the customers that he had received the sugar supplies and, in all the circumstances. will she recommend these customers to transfer their custom to private enterprise?