asked the Minister of Food why despite the recommendations of her medical advisers, he has refused to permit the issue of extra rations to Mrs. Eyles of 37, Dolls Hill, Byfield, Northamptonshire.

The application from the patient's doctor was referred to my medical advisers, who stated that the extra diet recommended was without influence on the course of the disease mentioned. In view of the acute shortage of the particular articles of diet asked for, my medical advisers did not feel justified in recommending that the request be granted.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this lady was seen by well-known specialists attached to a London hospital who prescribed extra proteins for her disease; that that information was sent on to his Ministry; and whether his Ministry's decision will result in this lady's life being shortened?

No, Sir. I am not aware of these allegations, because my medical advisers who, as the House knows, are of the highest authority, took the exactly opposite view.

How many of the Minister's medical advisers saw the patient, which strikes me as being quite an important factor?

The hon. Member knows the system on which this is done. My medical advisers accept the diagnosis completely from the practitioner who has seen the patient.

Will the Minister say how many of his medical advisers heard of this matter at all? Will he really say that they were acquainted with the views of the specialists attached to the London hospital, and, if that was not the case, will he undertake to have the matter reconsidered forthwith?

No, Sir. I said that they were acquainted with these views which were put to them, and these advisers were eminent medical authorities, who took the view that the diet recommended would be without influence on the disease mentioned.

; In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I shall raise this matter on the Motion for the Adjournment.