§ 49. Mr. Peter Freemanasked the Minister of Food whether he will introduce a priority sweet ration for small children and old age pensioners, many of whom at present are unable to obtain any supply of sweets at all.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food (Dr. Edith Summerskill)I think it would be a difficult administrative task to issue a special ration for children and old people only.
§ Mr. FreemanIs my right hon. Friend aware of the statement which was made before de-rationing took place, that special consideration would be given if children were unable to obtain sweets? What steps are being taken to implement that promise?
§ Dr. SummerskillI think my hon. Friend will remember that we asked retailers to give special consideration to children. Many have done so; if my hon. Friend will look at my answer last week on this matter I think he will derive some comfort.
§ Mr. F. Noel-BakerIs my right hon. Friend not aware that there are many retailers who have not got the supplies to provide for these people? Can she inform the House on what date the re-introduction of sweet rationing will be announced?
§ Dr. SummerskillI must ask my hon. Friend to exercise a little more patience.