asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will give any indication as to when he will be in a position to grant permits for rationed goods to catering establishments other than hotels.

Supplies of rationed commodities are available to all catering establishments which were in existence when rationing was introduced in 1941. The supply position does not at present enable allowances to be made to newly-opened catering establishments, other than hotels, but should it improve the matter will be reconsidered. It would be difficult at this stage to make a reliable forecast as to when a permanent improvement might be expected.