§ Mr. P. Robertsasked the Minister of Food how many tons of sweets were distributed coupon free through a grocer's firm in Wakefield, particulars of which have been sent to him; why this particular firm was selected; why local wholesalers were not selected who could distribute the sweets quickly; what profit was attached to this contract; and what was the latest date for the consumpion of these sweets before they became unfit to eat.
§ Mr. StracheyThe transaction to which the hon. Member refers involved approximately 25½ tons of Army surplus boiled sweets which were unsuitable for sale on the ration. The sweets were sold with all faults at the best price obtainable to a firm of licensed wholesalers of chocolate and sugar confectionery in Wakefield for re-sale free of ration exclusively to hospitals, institutions and canteens catering for heavy workers. The gross profit 245W allowed to the wholesalers was 2½d. per 1b. When sold the sweets were quite fit to eat but I cannot say how long they would have remained in that condition.