asked the Minister of Supply whether the compulsory collection of waste food by local authorities will be continued after the war, in order to maintain the supply of sterilised feeding stuffs for pigs and poultry; and, if so, will he advise local authorities to make arrangements accordingly and, where possible, to increase their collections.

I am advised by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture that kitchen waste will be wanted as a feeding stuff for pigs and poultry for the next four years, and possibly longer. Every effort is made to stimulate collections when necessary, and local authorities have recently been notified that the maximum collection of kitchen waste will be required for some time after the end of the European war.

Has my hon. Friend any information that any large number of local authorities are failing to answer the Government's appeal in this matter?

Not a large number; and where they are failing, pressure is being brought to bear upon them.

asked the Minister of Supply whether he can make any statement as to the continued importance of salvage collection by local authorities.

Over the country as a whole arisings of certain kinds of waste material are now sufficient. But there is still a need for special effort in the salvaging of various materials, such as waste paper, rags, bones and kitchen waste, and this need will continue after the European war is over. While I recognise the difficulties with which local authorities and merchants have to contend, from the unavoidable shortage of labour and other causes, I hope that both they and the public will do their best to maintain the supplies of these materials at the highest possible level.

Will the Minister take steps to see that the reply he has just given is communicated to the local authorities?

Yes, Sir.

As a lot of work is being held up through lack of labour, will the hon. Gentleman do all he can to provide labour for the local authorities?

Yes, Sir,