§ 46. Mr. Teelingasked the Minister of Food why milkmen are not allowed to deliver milk in London before 7 a.m.; and whether the wartime regulation prohibiting this can now be withdrawn.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food (Dr. Edith Summerskill)Restrictions on very early morning deliveries of milk were imposed to secure economies in distribution. My right hon. Friend does not consider that the resumption of these deliveries would justify the extra cost at the present.
§ Mr. TeelingDoes the hon. Lady realise that this regulation affects milkmen's holidays? They wish to go to seaside resorts on their day off, and they are unable to do so because of this regulation. They have to deliver their milk first. Could some exception be made?
§ Dr. SummerskillI should welcome evidence of what the hon. Gentleman tells me. My experience is that the milkmen welcome this regulation.
§ Mr. OsborneWhat financial economies have been effected by this regulation?
§ Dr. SummerskillThis is a question of economising not in money, but in manpower.
§ Mr. Anthony GreenwoodWhat discussions have taken place with the appropriate trade union on this matter?
§ Dr. SummerskillDiscussions have taken place on many occasions.