HC Deb 30 July 1946 vol 426 cc166-7W
Sir J. Mellor

asked the Minister of Food what is the purpose of Article 11 (2) of the Meals in Establishments Order, 1946; and whether he will give an assurance that he will not give directions thereunder, imposing increased or additional restrictions, either of general or particular application.

Mr. Strachey

The provision referred to in the Question is a common form provision which appears in practically all Orders made by the Minister under the Defence (General) Regulations, 1939. Its purpose is to make it clear to the public that the obligations imposed by the Order must he read and construed subject to any directions given by the Minister and to any licence granted by him.

Sir J. Mellor

asked the Minister of Food what is the purpose of Article 11 (1) of the Meals in Establishments Order, 1946; and whether he will give an assurance that he will not discriminate against particular establishments or classes of establishment in giving directions thereunder.

Mr. Strachey

The provision in question is merely declaratory of the power of giving directions which is vested in the Minister by Defence Regulation 55, 2A, and its purpose is to make it clear to the. public that the Minister may find it necessary in order to meet emergencies and fox other purposes from time to time to exercise this power. While it would not be possible to give an assurance that the same directions will be given to all establishments, the hon. Member may rest assured that there will be no unfair discrimination in the exercise of this power.

Sir J. Mellor

asked the Minister of Food what is meant by the expression, "artificial transaction," in Article 10 of the Meals in Establishments Order, 1946.

Mr. Strachey

To assume to interpret the Order would constitute a usurpation of the functions of the courts. The object of the provision prohibiting "artificial" transactions is to make it clear to the public that a transaction which is not bona fide and whose main or only object is to serve as a cloak for a transaction which would be a breach of the Order is to be treated as constituting an offence.