HC Deb 27 June 1949 vol 466 cc737-8
35. Sir I. Fraser

asked the Minister of Food whether he will now make a further statement on the future of the points rationing scheme.

Dr. Summerskill

I cannot add to the statement made on this subject by my right hon. Friend in the House on 3rd June.

Sir I. Fraser

When may we hope that the Parliamentary Secretary will be able to add anything encouraging?

Dr. Summerskill

The hon. Member has not said what he wants me to add. I shall be only too happy to answer him if he will tell me what particulars he wants me to answer.

Sir I. Fraser

To get rid of the points as quickly as possible.

Dr. Summerskill

I am certainly prepared to answer that. The answer is a simple one and has been given on many occasions. There are certain foods, such as canned meat, canned fish, dried fruits and canned fruits which are in very short supply, and until we can equate supplies to demand we feel we must retain the points system.

Mr. Langford-Holt

Is the right hon. Lady telling the House that snoek is in short supply, because there are tons of it in my constituency and no one will buy it?

Dr. Summerskill

If the hon. Gentleman will listen to the answer which I shall give to a Question dealing with that commodity, I am sure he will change his mind.