§ 58. Mr. Osborneasked the Minister of Food how many ex-army 14-day food packets have been sold to the miners; at what price; what they contained; how many food points they represent; and why they were not offered also to agricultural workers whose wages are smaller but whose work is as important as the miners.
§ Dr. SummerskillSeven hundred and twenty-five thousand of these food packs have been distributed to collieries for sale to mineworkers. The nett price is 22s. 6d. per pack and the points value is approximately 125. The packs vary, and I am sending the hon. Member a list of the contents of the various types. I regret that there were not enough for farm workers and other heavy workers.
§ Mr. OsborneIf there are any more of these food packs, will she remember that food is as important as coal, and will she see that the farm workers get a share?
§ Dr. SummerskillWe shall certainly consider that, but I should like the hon. Gentleman to know that the number of food packs approximated to the number of miners in the country. This decision was made during the fuel crisis when we felt that we should give our miners every encouragement.
§ Mr. MathersWill the Minister take into account the possibility of issuing some packs to shale miners whose work is considered heavier than that of coal mining?
§ Dr. SummerskillWe will certainly consider the matter.
§ Lord William ScottWill the hon. Lady consider placing a sample pack in the Library?