§ Mr. H. Hyndasked the Minister of Food why the National Union of Retail Confectioners was not consulted in regard to the de-zoning of sweets and chocolates; and whether he will give an assurance that such consultation will take place in future before decisions are made which vitally affect retail shopkeepers.
Dr. SunmierskillDiscussions about de-zoning took place between the Ministry and trade representatives, including representatives of the National Union of Retail Confectioners in November, 1944 and in February of this year, My right hon. Friend cannot give the hon. Member an assurance in the precise terms for which he asks, but it is the custom of the Department to consult appropriate trade bodies on all important matters affecting their trades.