HC Deb 18 February 1948 vol 447 cc1163-4
63. Mr. Ronald Chamberlain

asked the Minister of Food what were the net amounts handed over by his Department to the Meat Importers National (Defence) Association Limited and the Wholesale Meat Supply Associations respectively for distribution among their members in respect of the year 1946–47; and whether an early termination of this war-time arrangement is contemplated.

Dr. Summerskill

The nett amounts made available for distribution to the members of the Meat Importers National (Defence) Association, Ltd. and the Wholesale Meat Supply Associations in respect of the year 1946–47 were £695,959 and £1,733,146 respectively. The answer to the last part of the Question is, "No, Sir."

Mr. Chamberlain

Since these payments represent purely tribute payments and not for any service or goods to the community, is it not time that they were stopped, particularly in view of what we are told about inflationary tendencies?

Dr. Summerskill

I cannot understand my hon. Friend. Of course, these payments cover services. These men are responsible for distributing meat throughout the country and these are payments to them for their services.

Mr. Chamberlain

The Minister explained very kindly in a letter to me some time ago that this was really a wartime arrangement, but was now dealt with by the Government.

Dr. Summerskill

Certainly, it was a wartime arrangement. While meat is in short supply we must centralise and canalise distribution. We employ these men, who are experts in the handling of meat, to do this work.

Mr. Chamberlain

I beg to give notice that I will raise this matter at an early opportunity.