asked the Minister of Food if he will arrange to have supplies of points goods available at shops in the rural areas suitable for farm workers at the busy seasons on the farms.

Many of the foods covered by the points scheme are now fairly plentiful in all parts of the country. I regret I cannot promise that rural areas will be given a preferential share of any particular food. The Ministry's regional and local food officers will, however, be very willing to assist in overcoming any individual difficulties which may arise.

Does my hon. Friend realise that it is necessary to have points goods suitable for farm workers in villages at certain seasons in the year? Will he look into this matter again, because it is rather important to the countryside?

I will look into the matter, but I would point out that all grocers are able to carry stocks which have regard to the consideration my hon. Friend has raised.

When does the Minister hope to make a statement on the possible ending of the points rationing scheme?

Is the hon. Gentleman aware there is a real difficulty about the annual shortage of extra points goods, and that it would be greatly appreciated if he could do better this year than has been done in the past?

Will the Minister give the same preference to the agricultural areas as is given to the mining areas?

Could the Parliamentary Secretary say whether there is any truth in the rumour that the Minister intends to end points rationing?

It would be quite wrong for me to anticipate any ministerial statement.

Are we to take it, then, that reports this morning of speeches by the Minister have no foundation in fact?

Where are we?