HC Deb 16 December 1974 vol 883 cc1117-8
38. Mr. Scott-Hopkins

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what steps her Department is taking to publicise the EEC's social beef consumer subsidy.

37. Mr. James Spicer

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what steps her Department is taking to publicise the social beef EEC consumer subsidy.

The Under-Secretary of State for Health and Social Security (Mr. Alec Jones)

Advertisements appeared in national daily and Sunday papers between 14th and 18th November, and posters were displayed in post offices from 11th November. Tokens were issued automatically to eligible beneficiaries.

Mr. Scott-Hopkins

What has been the take-up since the initiation of this scheme? Will the hon. Gentleman make it clear that pensioners can use these tokens for other meat commodities as well as for beef? There seems to be some confusion about the matter.

Mr. Jones

It was made clear that the tokens would be available for beef and veal. It is too early to know the extent of the take-up, but all those entitled to the tokens have been advised about how they can get them.