§ 57. Brigadier Medlicottasked the Minister of Food if he has considered the resolution, a copy of which has been sent to him, passed by the Smallburgh Rural District Council in Norfolk, concerning the difficulty experienced by farm workers in obtaining meat and other substantial foodstuffs on the points issued to such workers for reasonal work; and what steps he is taking to remove this and other inequalities which exist between farm workers and those who have access to canteens.
§ Dr. SummerskillYes, Sir, but I am afraid that it is not practicable to ensure 1148 that particular commodities, of which everybody would like to have more, are available to meet the extra points allowances of agricultural workers. Since domestic and canteen supplies are also scarce, I cannot agree that inequalities for the farm worker are created.
§ Brigadier MedlicottIs the Minister aware that while farm workers are very patient about this matter they feel they are not getting a square deal? Will she look into the matter again?
§ Dr. SummerskillI must remind the hon. and gallant Gentleman that the farmworker gets additions to his diet which are not enjoyed by other workers.
§ Mr. BaldwinIs not the right hon. Lady aware that the one thing the farm worker wants is a bit of extra meat, which he is entitled to have just as much as other heavy workers, and miners? In any case ought she not to give the farm worker these rations without requiring applications to go through the hands of the farmers?