§ Sir WILLIAM COLLINSasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether his attention has been called to the great shortage in the supply of beasts to Derby Market; and whether he will consider the desirability of restoring access to those outside areas from which Derby butchers have for forty years drawn supplies?
§ Mr. CLYNESThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. In view of the approaching introduction of a general scheme of rationing for Great Britain, it has been found advisable to define the areas from which the requirements of each local food control committee shall be supplied, in order that all unnecessary transport may be avoided. It is, therefore, impossible to make the concession asked for in the second part of the question, but the hon. Member may rest assured that all possible steps are being taken by the Ministry of Food to maintain adequate supplies of meat for Derby.