asked the Minister of Food whether in connection with the present distribution of food and the difficulties experienced by those who have no opportunity of obtaining meals out, and are solely dependent on the basic ration, every endeavour will be made to increase the basic ration with special regard to those in the country districts who cannot obtain meals in British Restaurants and works canteens.

Rations will be increased the moment supplies permit.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the basic ration is not really sufficient for many people who cannot get any additional benefits from British Restaurants or works canteens, and that it is particularly hard on many people in the rural areas who have no advantages of that sort?

Agricultural workers do, of course, enjoy appreciably higher rations in some respects.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that they enjoy no ad- vantages in regard to increased rations of meat although they are working up to 12 hours a day or more?