HC Deb 04 February 1952 vol 495 cc635-6
44. Wing Commander Eric Bullus

asked the Minister of Food how many local food offices he has closed in recent weeks; how many more he intends to close; and what will be the total saving in staff and money.

Major Lloyd George

During the past two months five local food offices have been closed and eight have been converted to part-time operation. Arrangements are in hand to close three more and to convert another eight to part-time working. The staff reduction resulting from this is 20; and the annual saving, apart from savings on accommodation, is about £4,600.

I am also arranging experiments later in the year to test the possibility of letting other Departments with conveniently placed local offices carry out the duties of some of the smaller food offices on an agency basis.

Wing Commander Bullus

Will my right hon. Friend speed up the service to the public of the less efficient food offices which are left?

Major Lloyd George

If my hon. and gallant Friend will let me have examples I will try to keep them up to date.

Lieut.-Colonel Marcus Lipton

Does the right hon. Gentleman accept the principle that with less food available fewer food offices are required?

Major Lloyd George

Possibly, if there was less food.

Mr. Erroll

Could not further reductions be made if identity cards were abolished?

Major Lloyd George

I should like to have notice of that question.