asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what steps are being taken to ensure an adequate regular supply of butter at reasonable prices for the civilian population?

Butter will be a rationed commodity and consequently supplies available will be equitably distributed. Maximum retail prices have already been imposed. Steps are being actively taken at the present time to ensure that adequate supplies will be available to meet the ration requirements. The hon. Member will no doubt appreciate that, for the reasons which I explained to the House on the 26th instant, it will not be practicable in the immediate future to maintain butter supplies at their normal peace-time level.