§ 46. Mr. Doddsasked the hon. Member for Woolwich, West, as Chairman of the Kitchen Committee, why, in recent days, there has been a much reduced issue of sugar with beverages in the cafeteria; and for how long this reduction will last.
§ Mr. StewardIn common with other catering establishments, we are restricted to the scale of rationed goods permitted by the Ministry of Food. Of late a number of Members when taking hot beverages, have helped themselves to sugar too liberally and have, thereby, caused a temporary shortage. It is hoped to be able to revert to the normal issue when the House resumes after the Recess.
§ Mr. DoddsIs not that a depressing story? Is the hon. Gentleman aware that in the cafeteria members of the public have been unable to get sugar on several nights, and that with a pot of tea from which they can get two cups they get only one piece of sugar? Is not this a damning indictment against this Government of businessmen?
§ Mr. StewardI will examine the points made by the hon. Gentleman. The fact is that we are short of sugar for the reasons I have stated, and that we have to cut down all round. We are taking steps to prevent a recurrence of this in future.
§ Mr. PooleDoes that reply not prove conclusively that under this Government fair shares for all have disappeared?
§ Mr. StewardMy reply should denote that some hon. Members have taken advantage of the facilities given to them to help themselves, and that because they have abused that privilege we are short of sugar.