HC Deb 24 July 1946 vol 426 cc14-5W
101. Sir J. Mellor

asked the Minister of Food what is meant by the expression "attempt to consume," in Article 1 of the Meals in Establishments Order, 1946 (S.R. & 0., 1946, No. 1132).

Dr. Summerskill

What constitutes an "attempt to consume" can be determined only in the light of the particular circumstances. The express prohibition of an "attempt to consume" which has been inserted in the Meals in Establishments Order ever since it was first promulgated in 1942, is intended to make it clear to the public that in accordance with the well recognised principle of criminal law, acts which fall short of the actual commission of a misdemeanour but establish an attempt to commit that misdemeanour constitute a breach of the Order.

102. Sir J. Mellor

asked the Minister of Food whether he will, by general licence, exempt from the restrictions contained in the Meals in Establishments Order, 1946, acts done in pursuance of contracts entered into before the publication of the said Order.

Dr. Summerskill

No, Sir.