asked the Minister of Food how much he spent in 1946 on Press advertisements; and what percentage of the sum was represented by advertisements giving menus.

The amount spent on Press advertising of all kinds in 1946 was £361,710. None of the 52 "Food Facts" advertisements appearing in newspapers during the year contained a menu. Of the 25 advertisements in women's magazines, only one included a menu, as part of its advice on the planning of family meals.

Is the Minister satisfied that he is justified in spending this enormous sum of money on advertisements at the present time?

Yes, Sir. The sum has been considerably reduced in comparison with that spent under my predecessors. I think that these advertisements, in general, have had a very beneficial effect on the situation, and on the skill of housewives.

Does my right hon. Friend really believe that there is only one paper running a menu? Is it not the case that a great many papers run something like menus under the heading of "How to make the most of your rations"; and does not he think that it is time he gave the whole thing a rest, as the ordinary housewife has had so many menus over the past six years that her files must be overflowing with them whilst her cupboards are bare?

My hon. Friend is confusing menus with recipes.