HC Deb 22 September 1948 vol 456 cc883-4
57. Mr. J. H. Hare

asked the Minister of Food whether he will make an extra allotment of sugar to beekeepers in order to maintain the bee population, which is now at starvation point.

Dr. Summerskill

Two supplementary allowances, each of 5 lb. of sugar per colony, have been allowed during July and September, in addition to the 10 lb. winter allowance. Beekeepers may also draw the spring allowance of 5 lb. with the winter allowance, if they wish. I think the hon. Member will agree that this is ample.

Mr. W. J. Brown

In order that we may judge whether this allocation is adequate or not, can the Minister tell us what were the stocks of sugar in hand on 1st July, 1948?

Dr. Summerskill

I think the bees are being treated very well and I would like the hon. Member to know that each colony is now getting what is equivalent to the sugar ration of one person a year.