HC Deb 26 November 1952 vol 508 c439
6. Mr. Lewis

asked the Minister of Food if he is aware that rationed bacon is being sold off the ration to non-registered customers in North London; and whether he will make a statement on the evidence supplied to him by the hon. Member for West Ham, North.

Major Lloyd George

A few cases, including that mentioned by the hon. Member, have come to my notice and appropriate action is being taken. I am watching the position carefully and shall not hesitate to deal with such cases where I am satisfied there has been flagrant breach of the law. But I am hopeful that the difficulties of retailers incidental to the introduction of unrationed cooked gammon will prove to be temporary.

Mr. Lewis

Bearing in mind the previous answer on eggs, may I ask whether the Minister is now going to say that if there is a big enough attempt on the part of the retailers to sell off the ration he is going to drop the rationing of bacon, and if there is a big enough crookedness among some of the retailers he is going to de-ration the whole of the foodstuffs?