§ 32. Mr. Dribergasked the Minister of Food how many packed meals a day are distributed to agricultural workers in the county of Essex under the rural meals scheme; and what steps he is taking to make this service more widely available in this county.
§ Mr. WebbAn average of about 24,000 meals a week are provided in Essex under the Rural Meals Scheme. My officers are ready to assist and advise any organisation that is willing to prepare and distribute this type of meal where there is a need for it. If my hon. Friend has any proposals to make to extend this valuable service in Essex, I should be glad to consider them.
§ Mr. DribergDoes the initiative rest with my right hon. Friend's officers? Do they take any steps actively to stimulate the service?
§ Mr. BaldwinIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that he has not answered the Question, which inquired how many 987 packed meals get into the hands of the farm workers? Is he aware that the packed meals do not find their way into the hands of the farm workers but go to the community at large?
§ Mr. WebbThat is really a serious reflection on the farmers and I should not like to accept it without further examination.