§ Mr. Ellis Smithasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can make a statement on the preparations made, or the steps that are to be taken by the United Nations to deal with post-war famine and disease and the consequences of oppression; what contribution has the Government made towards the preparations; and will he undertake to have post-war relief ready organised by the Governments without resort to collections or charity?
§ Mr. JohnstoneAs stated by the Prime-Minister on 20th August, 1940, the, policy of His Majesty's Government is to arrange in advance for the supply of food to any part of Europe as soon as it is liberated. In view of our own food situation, this policy will call for joint action by other United Nations as well as ourselves. The machinery needed for this purpose is at present under discussion between His Majesty's Government and other United Nations, and His Majesty's Government will do their best to assist when the time comes to the fullest possible extent of their resources. While the effectiveness of any relief plan must depend on inter-governmental action, I anticipate that there will also be scope for the activities of voluntary organisations and I see no reason why their co-operation should be excluded.