HC Deb 24 May 1950 vol 475 c2064
55. Mr. David Griffiths

asked the Minister of Food the cost of distributing ration books annually from the commencement up to date.

Mr. Webb

We expect that the cost of distributing the new ration books this year will be about£675,000 against£790,000 in 1949. These figures include the pay of regular and casual staff, the rent of distribution centres, the cost of the books themselves, advertising and everything else. I am afraid there are no comparable figures for earlier years.

Mr. Griffiths

While appreciating the slight reduction in the cost, may I ask my right hon. Friend whether he is aware that, whereas in one area where 200 ration books were recently distributed six clerks were engaged, in another area the ration books were distributed by the Women's Voluntary Service at no cost?

Mr. Webb

I should like to look into that particular case if my hon. Friend will give me the information.

Sir Herbert Williams

Does this include the cost of distributing the points books, which have been rendered unnecessary since the Minister's statement last Friday?

Mr. Webb

Points are part of the ration book.

Sir H. Williams

Do I understand that all the points coupons were printed despite the fact that they were soon to be rendered useless?