HC Deb 03 March 1947 vol 434 cc5-6W
61. Mr. Janner

asked the Minister of Food whether Great Britain will be able to take up the increase of 392,000 tons of sugar which has been allocated to this country by the International Emergency Food Council for 1947; and whether this will enable an increase in the sugar ration to be made.

Dr. Summerskill

The sugar allocation made by the I.E.F.C. for 1947 is based upon estimated supplies which may not be fully forthcoming. Until we are certain of the exact quantity we shall receive during 1947, it will not be possible to say when the sugar ration can be increased, particularly as, part of the increased allocation will be needed to meet the increased requirements for manufactured foods.

74. Mr. Randall

asked the Minister of Food if, as sugar stocks are ample and our own sugar-beet crops highly satisfactory, an increase in the sugar ration can be given in order that housewives may take advantage of the arrival of hitter oranges to make marmalade.

Dr. Summerskill

At the moment our stocks of refined sugar are only sufficient to maintain the present rate of distribution: we cannot make any special issues until it is certain that supplies in 1947 will be appreciably higher than present consumption.