HC Deb 21 February 1918 vol 103 cc930-1W
Sir H. NIELD

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether it is proposed to restrict the rearing of pigs, rabbits, and poultry by private individuals for consumption by their households; and, if not, whether any such food will be included in the meat ration; and, in that case, will its consumption be limited to the amount of the ration and will the possession of the residue of such food be regarded as hoarding; and, if so, what course should be taken with respect to such residue; and to what extent wilt the answer to the foregoing questions apply to eggs produced by such poultry?

Mr. CLYNES

I would refer the hon. Member to the announcement on this matter appearing in the Press on 20th February. As is there stated, it is proposed that for the present consumption in a household of domestic produce generally may be taken within the ration at two-thirds of its actual weight under the rationing scheme for London and the Home Counties. Rabbits, hares, and birds (other than game birds) caught or kept by members of the household can, for the present, be regarded as outside the ration altogether. These arrangements are provisional, and will be reviewed by a. Special Committee which is being consti- tuted by Lord Rhondda for the purpose. The Food Hoarding Order does not apply to any home-produced or home-made article of food in the possession of the producer or maker, and the same rule, applies to eggs produced by domestic poultry.