§ 28. Mr. G. Jegerasked the Minister of Food whether he is aware that chocolate manufacturers are informing retailers that they can still only supply limited allocations during the established ration periods; and whether he will take steps to enable manufacturers to furnish retailers with adequate supplies of chocolates without relating these supplies to the fixed ration periods.
§ Major Lloyd GeorgeNo, Sir. The trade is adjusting itself to the new conditions, and I must leave it to them.
§ Mr. JegerWhen the right hon. and gallant Gentleman replies, "No, Sir," does he intend to deny that the trade are imposing this regulation or sticking to the ration periods?
§ Major Lloyd GeorgeNo, Sir. I was referring to the latter part of the hon. Gentleman's Question, which asked whether I would take steps, and replying, "No, Sir." The trade must do it itself.
§ Lieut.-Colonel LiptonDoes the Minister still deny that there is a nation-wide continued shortage of chocolates and sweets?
§ Major Lloyd GeorgeI deny it absolutely. There is a shortage of certain lines at certain times, but it still remains a fact that I have had no complaint yet from a consumer.
§ Mr. G. H. R. RogersIs the Minister aware that some wholesalers are offering retailers supplies of the more popular brands if they will accept a reduction in the profit margin, especially in the Wembley area?
§ Major Lloyd GeorgeI have no knowledge of that, but it is a matter for the trade to settle. In any case, whatever difficulties there may be—and I do not think that they are as great as some hon. Gentlemen suggest—the announcement made yesterday will remove them.