asked the Minister of Food if he will restore the cuts in the fat allocation to master bakers and confectioners from 42 per cent. of datum to 75 per cent. of datum in view of the hardship suffered particularly to small businesses.

No, Sir. The additional imports that would be required make the proposal impracticable. But I have found it possible to give some easement to small bakers and confectioners by arranging that those with an allocation before the cut of up to 3 cwt. per 8-week period will be exempt from the cut, while those with an allocation of over 3 cwt. will receive at least 3 cwt.

Is the right hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that his reply is a very favourable one, and that it will now be possible for small bakers to extend their business without sacrificing the quality of their products?

I think so, and I am very glad that it should be so. I only wish that we could have done more.