§ 84. Mr. G. Jegerasked the Minister of Food whether he is aware that gas main layers, electrical linesmen and water works employees often work together under the same conditions; and will he give the reasons for the refusal to allow special rations of cheese to the gas main layers while the others are allowed this.
§ Dr. SummerskillThe answer to the first part of the Question is "Yes, Sir," but the special cheese ration is restricted to certain well-defined categories of workers who are permanently employed under conditions which render the provision of canteen or other catering facilities for them impracticable. As regards the second part of the Question I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given to him on 20th February. Inquiries are, however, being made to see whether there is any substantial number of gas main layers permanently employed in the open country who could be regarded as a well defined category for the purpose of the grant of the special cheese ration.