asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether, in view of the scarcity of cheese and the fact that it is a necessary diet for those engaged on heavy work, the Ministry would arrange for such persons only being entitled to buy cheese?

The question of the supply and distribution of cheese is at present under consideration, and I will see that my hon. and gallant Friend's suggestion is borne in mind.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food what precautions the Ministry are taking to see that only those engaged on heavy work are furnished with the special cards for heavy workers?

Under the provisional arrangement now in force, supplementary ration cards for heavy workers are issued only on an individual application, stating the nature of the work and verified by a certificate by the employer or other responsible person. The general subject of supplementary rations is under further consideration. I am in consultation with the representatives of organised labour, and hope to make an announcement shortly.

Can the hon. Gentleman say how many supplementary rations have been issued up to the present time?

No; I only know that many thousands of the forms have been correctly filled up and the applications made, but as to the exact number, I should require notice.