§ Dr. Strossasked the Minister of Food the present cost per week of a diet consisting each day of 2 lb. 2 oz. of whole- 1145 meal bread, 4 oz. of the cheapest imported cheese, one orange and one dessertspoonful of cod liver oil.
§ Dr. StrossIs the Minister aware that this is the cheapest possible diet that will allow an adult to work and retain his health, and that it is said to contain all the protective substances as well as calories, proteins, etc.? Does he agree that 11s. is nearly three times as much as this diet used to cost in the '30s, when it was 4s., and will he assure the House that he is aware of the serious problem facing the vulnerable classes in our country as the result of the rising prices of food?
Dr. HillI appreciate that this diet may be scientifically satisfactory, but it is also a pretty melancholy proposition. Secondly, I disagree with the calculation of the hon. Gentleman, for I make the pre-war cost of this unattractive diet 6s. 4d. per week.
§ Mr. LeghMay we take it that this economy diet will be advocated in the Labour Party's statement of policy?
§ Dr. StrossIs the Minister aware that I have quoted figures which were given by Professor Mottram, who first put this forward as a diet which nobody could eat but which contains in theory all that is needed to protect one? If I am right and the figure is less than 6s. 4d. and nearer 4s., will the hon. Gentleman take a little more care in view of his responsibilities to the country?
§ Mrs. MannIf it becomes necessary to follow this diet, would the Parliamentary Secretary publish an alternative way of committing hara-kiri?
Dr. HillIt is not necessary to follow this diet and we are rapidly proceeding to a better and more varied diet.