§ 46. Mr. Symondsasked the Minister of Food at what date this spring he contemplates offering consumers a further opportunity of changing their milk retailer.
§ 55. Mr. Binnsasked the Minister of Food whether he will make arrangements for customers to change their milk retailer.
The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food (Dr. Edith Summer-skill)Yes Sir. All domestic consumers 1141 and catering establishments will be given the opportunity at the time of the mass issue of ration books next April and May to change their milk retailers if they wish to do so. There will, however, be no compulsory re-registration for milk except in the case of expectant mothers and children up to five who receive supplies of milk under the Welfare Food Service.
§ Mr. MikardoIs my right hon. Friend aware that when this operation was carried out last Spring it resulted in a great increase in the use of petrol, tyres, vehicles and distributive manpower for very little benefit to the consumer? Why are we going on with it?
§ Dr. SummerskillBecause it is of importance that the housewife should be allowed to exercise her choice.
§ Mr. DraysonWill the right hon. Lady agree that she should abolish milk rationing altogether now because there is plenty of milk about?
§ Dr. SummerskillNo, Sir.