asked the Minister of Food to what extent British rationing applies to passengers sailing in British ships from British ports; and whether, as the copy of the breakfast menu sent to him indicates that more foodstuffs than are necessary are supplied for consumption by such passengers, he will take steps to put an end to this.

Although the passengers are not subject to rationing aboard British vessels, the amount of food which the ships can obtain here is strictly limited. My hon. Friend will realise the importance of imposing as few restrictions as possible on British vessels since they have to compete with foreign-owned ships.

Is the hon. Lady aware that in the copy of the menu which I sent her far more foodstuffs are available for meals on board ship than for the civilian population here, and could not something be done to remove this anomaly?

My hon. Friend must remember that meat, bacon and ham are controlled by the Merchant Shipping Acts and we could not cut them down without a Measure passed by this House.

In any case, is it not a good thing that our visitors should leave Britain with a pleasant taste in their mouths?