HC Deb 22 December 1954 vol 535 cc2751-2
38. Mr. A. Henderson

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether consideration will be given to increasing airmen's daily ration allowance so that a wider variety of food can be purchased.

Mr. Ward

The amount was increased on 1st November, and I hope that this will have the desired effect.

39. Mr. Beswick

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air if he will take steps to improve the quality of food provided in the Royal Air Force, and, in particular, reduce the frequency of meals consisting of offal.

Mr. Ward

I think that on the whole people in the Royal Air Force are given very good food, although we are, of course, always seeking ways and means of improving our standards. A check from 100 units shows that the amount of offal bought each week is rather less than will provide one complete meal a man, and this hardly seems excessive.

40. Mr. Beswick

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air if he will provide more modern cooking equipment for Royal Air Force stations.

Mr. Ward

We have worked out a programme of re-equipment, and we are pressing ahead with this as fast as we can.

Mr. Beswick

Is it not a fact that although the food may be good in quality it is not always the most appetising when it is served? Is the hon. Gentleman aware that, especially at this time of year, we can all applaud the fact that an attempt is being made to improve the cooking facilities?

Mr. Ward

We have been making great efforts since the war through training courses. We have increased the basic cook's course from eight weeks to 14 weeks, and we have introduced a 12 weeks' advanced cooking course.