§ Mr. R. C. Morrisonasked the Minister of Food whether he is aware that invalids and aged persons applying for extra milk are required to submit a medical certificate each month for which doctors charge 1s. each; and will he consider extending the period to three months or making other arrangements to lessen the hardship?
§ Mr. MabaneThe length of time for which medical certificates are valid for priority milk varies according to the medical condition of the patient. The periods vary from one week in the case of active workers temporarily incapacitated for work to an indefinite period in the case of diabetics and are in accordance with the recommendations of the Food Rationing (Special Diets) Advisory Committee of the Medical Research Council and my right hon. Friend would not feel justified in extending them. The charge made by doctors is a matter for settlement between doctor and patient. I understand that in cases of hardship many doctors forgo fees.