asked the Minister of Food whether he will give an assurance that he will pay special attention to the needs of the individual ration-book holder when granting any ration increases in the near future.

That people living alone sometimes have special difficulties over rations is fully recognised, but to attempt to give such persons differential rations would prove, I am afraid, an impossible task.

Could the hon. Gentleman give us the proportions allocated to private rations and to catering establishments?

No, Sir, not without notice.

asked the Minister of Food whether he will consider giving smallholders the right to claim the additional rations now granted to agricultural workers.

No, Sir. The special cheese ration for agricultural workers is meant to provide for packed lunches to be eaten away from home, while working on their employer's farm. Smallholders are free to return home for meals.

Will the hon. Member consult with the Minister of Agriculture to ascertain whether equal shares of food can be given for equal work?