§ 39. Mr. Heathcoat Amoryasked the Minister of Food the number of officials 2568 engaged in the administration of the B.U. scheme of bread rationing; and whether he is satisfied that present results still justify the expenditure of this manpower.
The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food (Dr. Edith Summer-skill)About 750 local food office staff spread over 1,200 food offices deal with bread rationing. I am satisfied that the results of the bread rationing scheme still justify the labour expended upon it.
Mr. AmoryIs it not a fact that this particular scheme has broken down in many parts of the country to a point where B.U.s are no longer collected, and is not this an indication that the matter needs reconsideration?
§ Dr. SummerskillIn view of the fact that the population has increased by two millions since 1946, and that flour delivered for human consumption is less by 2.6 per cent, than the amount delivered in 1946, I think this is still justified.
§ Mr. LipsonCan the hon. Lady confirm or deny the story which appeared in today's papers that bread rationing is to cease shortly?
§ Dr. SummerskillNo, Sir.
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterCan the hon. Lady mention any parts of the country where the scheme is actually operating at all?
§ Dr. SummerskillYes, Sir.