§ Colonel W. THORNEasked the Food Controller if he is aware of considerable displacement of labour in certain biscuit factories in consequence of slackening of orders, and that employment would be stabilised if the Ministry would reduce the Licence Duty of 36s. per sack of flour; and if he will take action in the matter?
§ Mr. McCURDYThe Food Controlleris not aware of considerable displacement of labour in biscuit factories. Any slackening of orders would appear to be due to the cancellation of contracts for Army biscuits since the cessation of hostilities, but the manufacture of biscuits for civilian consumption has been encouraged, export is now permitted, and adequate supplies of fats and sugar for use in manufacture have been made available. The Licence Duty to which the hon. and gallant Member refers corresponds approximately to the amount of the subsidy on flour. The Food Controller is considering this reduction of this rate as costs decline.