§ 45. Mr. Hurdasked the Prime Minister if he is satisfied that the recent rate of progress in derationing foodstuffs and winding up the trading affairs of the Ministry of Food will make it possible to close this Department of State by the end of this year.
§ 48. Sir H. Williamsasked the Prime Minister to what Departments it is intended to allot the remaining functions of the Ministry of Food after the forthcoming abolition of rationing.
§ The Prime Minister (Sir Winston Churchill)The end of rationing this summer will make possible further large staff reductions but will still leave important duties of Government to be performed. It is not yet possible to forecast the arrangements for carrying out these long term functions.
§ Mr. HurdWill the Prime Minister tell us whether the Government have decided that the Ministry of Food shall be closed down at the earliest possible time, having regard to its remaining duties?
§ The Prime MinisterYes, Sir. I think that general statements of that character have been made for some time past, but the actual details must be precisely stated when they are all settled.
§ Mr. ShortWill the right hon. Gentleman tell us who will bear the cost of the distribution of welfare foods when the Ministry of Food is closed down, and whether this burden will be laid upon local authorities?
§ The Prime MinisterI certainly think that I ought to have notice of that Question.