§ 36. Mr. Spenceasked the Minister of Food how the consumption of flour by the civilian population in the first quarter of 1947 compares with civilian consumption in the first quarter of 1946, allowing for changes in the numbers of the civilian population.
§ Mr. StracheyComplete information is not yet available, but it is estimated provisionally that civilian consumption of flour for all purposes averaged 4.25 lb. per head per week in the first quarter of 1947 compared with 4.42 lb. per head per week in the first quarter of 1946.
§ 41. Mr. Toucheasked the Minister of Food the latest estimate of the amount of flour saved since the introduction of bread-rationing coupons; whether this saving of flour is sufficient to render unnecessary the 5 per cent. cut in flour supplies to bakers; and when this cut is likely to be restored.
§ Mr. StracheyOver the period of bread rationing, from 21st July, 1946, to 26th April, 1947, deliveries of flour to all users have averaged 9,200 tons a week less than during the corresponding period of 19451946. As already announced the 5 per cent. reduction in flour deliveries to bakers has been imposed for six weeks only.