§ 29. Lieut.-Colonel Liptonasked the Minister of Food for how long the sale of cream will be permitted.
§ 34. Brigadier Raynerasked the Minister of Food on what date approximately he expects to put milk back on the ration this summer.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food (Mr. Frederick Willey)I would refer the hon. and gallant Members to the reply my right hon. Friend gave to the hon. and gallant Member for Wembley, North (Wing Commander Bullus), on Monday, 4th June.
§ Lieut.-Colonel LiptonCan my hon. Friend give an assurance that the sale of cream has not prejudiced either the manufacture of cheese or milk powder for infants and that it has not increased the possibility of milk rationing later because of the depleted milk supply?
§ Mr. WilleyWe endeavour to hold a balance in these matters, and it is because 1652 we are holding such a balance that we now regrettably have to discontinue the manufacture of cream.
§ Commander NobleAs the sale of cream has not been allowed for some years, can the Minister say on what the present price is based?
§ Mr. WilleyThe cost of production.
§ Mr. Somerville HastingsWhat unforeseen circumstances induced this decision?
§ Mr. WilleyThe decision was taken in an endeavour to meet the needs or requirements of the people who wanted to consume cream and the farming community who wanted to produce cream.
§ Mr. TurtonIs the hon. Gentleman aware that the instructions about the sale of cream did not reach some caterers until the announcement of the cancellation of the concession? Does he appreciate that these sudden changes of policy destroy confidence in his administration?
§ Mr. WilleyNo, I am not so aware, and it is not my responsibility.