HC Deb 20 March 1957 vol 567 cc374-5
27 Mr. Peyton

asked the Secretary of State for Air (1) what increase there has been in the Royal Air Force meat ration since the end of civilian meat rationing;

(2) what action he intends to take to improve Royal Air Force rations.

Mr. C. I. Orr-Ewing

The daily meat ration in this country was increased by one ounce in November, 1954.

The scale of Royal Air Force rations generally, like that for the other two Services, has recently been under review, but I am not at present in a position to make a statement.

Mr. Peyton

While we are all grateful that the matter is receiving consideration, may I ask whether my hon. Friend would please remind his right hon. Friend the Minister of Defence that this is a longstanding and genuine grievance and that action must be taken shortly to put it right? Is my hon. Friend aware that if that action is not taken the matter will certainly be raised again in the House?

Mr. Orr-Ewing

I know that my right hon. Friend the Minister of Defence treats this matter as one of great seriousness and also of some urgency.

Mr. Lipton

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that this question has been under active consideration for a few years? When will this activity result in something?

Mr. Orr-Ewing

I am aware that it has been under consideration for a long time, but it is necessary to co-ordinate the rations for the three Services. I hope that my right hon. Friend will be able to announce the results of that examination in due course.