asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he will arrange for supplies of oranges to be made specially available to invalids during the children's priority period or immediately that period comes to an end; and whether he will recognise the special requirements of tuberculosis patients?

Major Lloyd George:

The Ministry's medical advisers are of the opinion that provided adequate supplies of vitamin C are available there is no necessity to provide a special supply of oranges for anyone suffering from any type of disease or injury, and I regret that I cannot see my way to adopting my hon. Friend's suggestions.

But a medical analysis does not satisfy the craving of an invalid who would be greatly benefited if the right hon. and gallant Gentleman could act on the suggestion contained in my Question.

Major Lloyd George:

Naturally, we like to do what we can, but we are bound to take note of the advice of our medical people on this matter, and we are assured by them that it is possible, even in simple forms, to give them vitamin C.

What is meant by vitamin C?