HC Deb 03 April 1950 vol 473 cc829-30
1. Mr. Keeling

asked the Minister of Food whether he will now announce the revocation of the Meals in Establishments Orders.

2. Mr. G. R. Howard

asked the Minister of Food what decision he has now reached as to whether fish may be served as an extra course in hotels and restaurants.

33. Mr. Michael Astor

asked the Minister of Food whether he will now withdraw the order restricting the price of meals in hotels and restaurants to 5s.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food (Mr. S. N. Evans)

As my right hon. Friend told the House on 13th March and again on 20th March, he is now reviewing these regulations, and will make an announcement as soon as possible.

Mr. Keeling

Does the hon. Gentleman's right hon. Friend accept the view expressed by a caterers' association, during the week-end, that the abolition of the 5s. rule would do more than any other relaxation of control to attract foreign tourists here and to keep British holidaymakers in this country?

Mr. Evans

I would not care to say whether my right hon. Friend accepts that view or not, but this matter is under urgent consideration and everything appertaining to the subject will be taken into account.

Mr. G. R. Howard

Does not the Minister think that, especially in the case of fish, any such relaxation would not only stimulate the demand for fish, but would give large numbers of people a chance to have, in canteens and restaurants, a little more of something they want?

Mr. Evans

We have had representations from trawler owners about the difficulties they are experiencing in disposing of fish, and that also, of course, is a consideration to which full weight will be given.

Mr. Moelwyn Hughes

Will my hon. Friend, in considering this matter, take into consultation the new British Travel Association?

Mr. Evans

We shall be happy to listen to anyone who can make a contribution to our arriving at a right decision in this matter.

Sir Peter Macdonald

As this matter has been under consideration by the Ministry for a very long time, and as we have had several promises that an early decision would be arrived at, is it not time that they made up their minds, especially as the tourist season is approaching?

Mr. Evans

There has been a change in tenancy, and we are, I think, entitled to a reasonable time to look round. There will be no delay in arriving at a decision.

Mr. Astor

As I am still not quite clear what the hon. Gentleman has in mind, will he tell me whether he agrees that the continuation of this Order is hypocritical, that it is evaded by one means or another, and that in many restaurants and hotels it does not reduce the price of food?

Mr. Evans

I could not agree that the reason for this Order was political, or that its continuation is political.

Mr. Astor

I said "hypocritical."

Mr. Evans

I do not think I can add anything to what I have said.