HC Deb 14 May 1952 vol 500 cc1418-9
21. Mr. Foot

asked the Minister et Food whether, in his proposed consultations to devise a new system of sugar allocation between food-manufacturing firms, he will consult those firms outside the Food Manufacturers' Federation who have suffered especially severely as the result of the import cuts of last November.

Major Lloyd George

It is not practicable for me to approach individual firms not represented by trade associations, but I shall certainly take into account any views which they express.

Mr. Foot

Is the right hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that whereas firms inside the Food Manufacturers' Federation have had a cut of some 5 per cent. in their allocation, some firms outside the Federation have had a cut of 100 per cent.? Is he aware that they are being driven out of business? Does he not think that makes it all the more urgent that he confers with firms outside the Federation to try and make these new allocations on a fair basis as quickly as possible?

Major Lloyd George

Obviously it is much easier to deal with associations than with individual firms but, as I said, I am always prepared to receive any representations from individual firms.

Mr. Foot

Does the Minister not think that it adds to the grievance of some of these firms that they are denied entry into the Food Manufacturers' Federation and are denied any allocation figure since the import cuts were imposed last November and they are being driven out of business? Is it the case that apparently the right hon. and gallant Gentleman did not consult them in November and is not consulting them when making his new plans, although he has received letters of protest from them?

22. Mr. Roland Robinson

asked the Minister of Food whether he is aware of the hardship caused to catering licence holders who keep hotels and boarding houses in that they are only allowed a weekly ration of 8 oz. of sugar per weekly guest instead of the 10 oz. available to the ordinary domestic consumer; and whether he will raise the ration to the caterer so that those people taking holidays away from home are not penalised.

Major Lloyd George

Allocations to caterers are based on the meals and hot drinks they serve and not on weekly quantities per guest. I am afraid that in present circumstances an increase in sugar allowances to caterers could only be afforded at the expense of other consumers including the ordinary householder.

Mr. Robinson

Is the Minister aware that the present position causes dissatisfaction both to the caterer and to the holiday maker? Could he reconsider the matter as soon as possible?

Major Lloyd George

I shall do so as soon as supplies make it possible.