Festival of Britain (Extra Rations)

Oral Answers to Questions — Food Supplies – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 15 November 1950.

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Photo of Mr John Boyd-Carpenter Mr John Boyd-Carpenter , Kingston upon Thames 12:00, 15 November 1950

asked the Minister of Food what extra rations, and subject to what conditions, he intends to issue to persons entertaining in their homes visitors to the Festival of Britain.

Photo of Mr Maurice Webb Mr Maurice Webb , Bradford Central

Householders in London who provide accommodation, approved by the British Travel and Holidays Association, during the Festival of Britain will be enabled to provide meals, in the same way as hotels for guests who stay for short periods. Guests who stay five nights or more will have to bring their own ration cards in the usual way. For those staying for shorter periods, householders will get ration cards in proportion to the number of meals served.

Photo of Mr John Boyd-Carpenter Mr John Boyd-Carpenter , Kingston upon Thames

Can the right hon. Gentleman say how this concession will be restricted to visitors to this particular festival?

Photo of Mr Maurice Webb Mr Maurice Webb , Bradford Central

One of the restrictions for the moment is that the plan applies only to London. The plan has been worked out in consultation with Sir Alexander Maxwell, and we are satisfied that we have made a very helpful arrangement in the circumstances.

Photo of Mr Robin Turton Mr Robin Turton , Thirsk and Malton

Why should not this scheme be extended over the rest of the country where the Festival of Britain is taking place?

Photo of Mr Maurice Webb Mr Maurice Webb , Bradford Central

We are satisfied that in most areas the hotel accommodation will be ample, but, if it is not, we shall consider extending the scheme.

Photo of Lieut-Commander Joseph Braithwaite Lieut-Commander Joseph Braithwaite , Bristol North West

What happens if the visitors give the Festival a miss after their arrival and go to cricket matches?

Photo of Mr Maurice Webb Mr Maurice Webb , Bradford Central

The same as happens to the hon. and gallant Member and myself when we go to cricket matches; they will get an extra meal on the side.

Photo of Mr Winston Churchill Mr Winston Churchill , Woodford

Is the appointment of any extra staff involved in this?

Photo of Mr Maurice Webb Mr Maurice Webb , Bradford Central

No, Sir. I think we can look after this with our existing staff.

Photo of Mr Winston Churchill Mr Winston Churchill , Woodford

Can the right hon. Gentleman remember what are the numbers of the existing staff?

Photo of Mr Maurice Webb Mr Maurice Webb , Bradford Central

There are 5,000 less than there were six months ago.