§ 56. Mr. Willeyasked the Minister of Food whether, in view of the widespread public demand for extra Christmas fare, he will reconsider his decision not to give any extra rations of foodstuffs at Christmas time.
Dr. HillNo, Sir. My right hon. and gallant Friend is satisfied that housewives prefer to have their rations maintained at the highest possible level throughout the year and to be free themselves to decide how best to use them.
§ Mr. WilleyIs the hon. Gentleman aware that housewives know very well that the cheese ration is the lowest we have ever had, that the butter ration will be the lowest at Christmas for four years, that the meat ration will probably be the lowest for many years and that the present Minister of Food is the worst we have ever had?
Dr. HillI think housewives will also be aware that the level of the sugar, sweets and bacon rations will be higher this Christmas than in previous years. As the hon. Member knows, it is impossible to provide bonuses of rationed food at Christmas except by withholding supplies earlier in the year or postponing increases.
§ Mr. ShinwellIs not the hon. Gentleman also aware that the prices will be higher this Christmas than they have been for several years?
§ Mr. ProfumoIs my hon. Friend aware that the majority of housewives have realised only too well that if hon. Members opposite had been in office they would have got nothing at all this Christmas?