HC Deb 15 March 1948 vol 448 cc200-1W
39. Sir P. Macdonald

asked the Minister of Food whether he is aware that his decision to modify the order relating to social and business gatherings to more than 100 was not notified to organisations representing the hotels and restaurants industry of this country either simultaneously or immediately after his statement in Parliament on 10th March, and, in view of the fact that he stated that the new arrangements were to take effect at once, why such action was not taken.

Dr. Summerskill

The new arrangements came into force on 12th March and a notice was sent to catering trade organisations on that day. The announcement had first to be made to the House and the notification to the trade was issued at the earliest practicable moment afterwards.