HC Deb 19 November 1952 vol 507 cc1849-50
27. Mr. Godber

asked the Minister of Food if he will issue licences to responsible local organisations to authorise the roasting of a whole ox as part of their celebrations during Coronation week.

30. Lieut.-Colonel Bromley-Davenport

asked the Minister of Food whether, in order to assist advanced planning, he will give an early indication whether he will permit the roasting of whole oxen as part of village Coronation celebrations.

Major Lloyd George

This is one of a number of suggestions I am considering, and I shall make a statement in good time.

Mr. Godber

Will my right hon. and gallant Friend bear in mind, in considering this matter, that there is a very real request from many people in the country to celebrate the Coronation in this traditional way?

Mr. Royle

Will the Minister say how many coupons will have to be sacrificed from a 1s. 8d. ration to enable this sort of thing to take place?

Major Lloyd George

That is one of the questions I am considering.

Mr. Peter Freeman

Is the right hon. and gallant Gentleman aware of the loathing and disgust with which such an obscene exhibition is regarded by every decent citizen, and will he withhold such licences, either during the Coronation or at any other time, from local authorities and any other persons?

Mrs. Mann

Since the 1s. 8d. worth of butcher meat would hardly cover a saucer, could the Minister give an indication of the cost of roasting an ox?

Major Lloyd George

I think I will certainly have to have notice of that question.