asked the Minister of Food if, as increased supplies of milk are available, he will now extend the scope of the priority allocation to old people, many of whom are finding it difficult to get enough milk for their reasonable requirements.

Unfortunately the seasonal increase in milk supplies does not last long enough for us to add all old people to the priority classes for milk. They will, however, enjoy, from 25th April, the temporary increase of one pint in the weekly allowance of milk to non-priority consumers.

Mr. Amory:

Is the hon. Lady aware—as I am sure she is—that many old people who are living alone have a very difficult time, even with the present increased non-priority ration?

I fully realise that, but I would remind the hon. Member that there are seven million people who qualify for the old age pension, and that it is very difficult to promise an increase in their allocation.

Will my hon. Friend consider making an additional allocation of evaporated milk to old people?

It is impossible to get evaporated milk without first getting liquid milk.