§ 31 and 32. Lieut.-Colonel Corbettasked the Minister of Food (1) if he is aware that British-manufactured chocolates and sweets can be purchased in the open market abroad, particularly in the 195W Middle East; and if these goods are exported other than for distribution to British forces and to U.N.R.R.A.;
(2) if he will reduce the quantity of sweets and chocolates exported in order to increase the amount available to British children at Christmas.
§ Mr. StracheyI would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the statement made in the House on 16th April this year by my predecessor. Limited quantities of chocolates and sweets—about 3,700 tons in the year compared to our weekly consumption of over 5,000 tons are being exported to certain Empire and Middle East countries, for sale to the general public and are apart from any shipments which may be made for British Forces and U.N.R.R.A. I have already arranged to provide a substantial additional supply of sweets for British children at Christmas.