HC Deb 27 November 1950 vol 481 c763
7. Mr. Hamilton Kerr

asked the Minister of Food whether, in view of the shortage of sweets, he will reconsider his decision to grant visitors staying under six months in this country an extra ration of sweets.

Mr. F. Willey

No, Sir. The total quantity of sweets involved is very small; and the public would gain nothing if this small concession, which is intended to provide some help to our tourist industry, were cancelled.

Mr. Kerr

Does the hon. Gentleman think that this small extra ration of sweets is likely to attract visitors from countries where sweets are not rationed, and cannot that extra amount be given to the children?

Mr. Willey

The amount is so small that it would not benefit the children; it would not be sufficient to add to the ration. We are advised—and I have no reason to quarrel with the advice—that this is an inducement to tourists.

Sir Herbert Williams

Will the hon. Gentleman inform the Lord President of the Council that he does not expect many visitors for the Festival of Britain?

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