asked the Minister of Food why the Food (Points Rationing) Order, 1946, and the 13 orders amending it have not been consolidated; and when these orders, which affect housewives generally, will be rendered intelligible.

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given him as recently as 8th May. As to the second part of the Question, the purport of the orders is given in explanatory notes, in Press notices, in "Food Facts" and on the wireless, and I do not believe that housewives have difficulty in understanding the points rationing system.

Will not the Minister save both labour and annoyance by refraining from amending the principal Order at least once a month?

What we do is to consolidate this Order annually, and it will be consolidated again.

Why is it necessary to amend it at least once a month?

The whole essence of the points scheme is that as supply and demand vary the point values are put up or down.