§ Mr. Sparksasked the Minister of Food if, when the early potato crop arrives from North Africa, he will give priority to the raising of the present inadequate ration for children under five years.
§ Mr. StracheyI regret that supplies of potatoes which are expected to arrive from North Africa will not permit of a general increase in the present allowances of potatoes. The data available indicate that the present allowance for children up to the age of five years covers their nutritional needs. Furthermore, their intake of vitamin C can be augmented by the special allowance of orange juice which is available to them but not to older children. I regret, therefore, that I cannot in this case give priority to children under five.