HC Deb 23 July 1951 vol 491 cc4-5W
65. Mr. Roland Robinson

asked the Minister of Food how many local authorities have asked for a reprieve from the obligation to wind-up their civic restaurants, after showing a loss for three consecutive years; in how many cases has this reprieve been granted; and in how many has it been refused.

Mr. F. Willey

Out of 24 applications received 16 have been granted, three rejected, and five are still under consideration.

66. Mr. Roland Robinson

asked the Minister of Food what was the maximum number of civic restaurants operating at the same time during the past six years; what is the present number in operation; and whether further reductions are proposed.

Mr. F. Willey

The highest number of civic restaurants operating in the past six years was 1,578 in July, 1945. The number in operation in May, 1951, was 310. Local authorities are responsible for civic restaurants, and I cannot say whether there is likely to be any change in the numbers in operation.