§ Mr. Sharpasked the Minister of Food what is the approximate percentage distribution of cheese supplies as between hotels, catering establishments and canteens, and that for the individual ration; and what prospects there are of increasing the latter.
§ Mr. StracheyAt present I see no prospect of increasing the individual ration of cheese. Approximately 78 per cent. of all rationed cheese going into civilian consumption is taken up by the normal ration. Another 12 per cent. is accounted for by the extra rations given to agricultural workers, underground miners and other groups of workers, and to classes such as diabetics and vegetarians. The remaining 10 per cent. is used in hotels, restaurants, canteens and other catering establishments in institutions such as hospitals and in meeting special authorities, particularly the seasonal allowances made to farm workers for whom canteen meals cannot be provided.