FOOD SUPPLIES

Waikato Times, Volume 127, Issue 21188, 10 August 1940, Page 18 (Supplement)

FOOD SUPPLIES

POSITION IN BRITAIN GERMANS IN DENMARK (Special Correspondent) LONDON, August 3 Germany’s occupation of Denmark and the war in Norway have meant a re-survey of the sources of food supply to this country. In 1938, Denmark (adding certain supplies from Sweden), sent us 32 per

cent of our total consumption of bacon, 26 per cent of our butter consumption, and 16 per cent of the eggs consumed here. The earlier stages of the war resulted in a redaction of perhaps 40 per cent of that food importation, from the Scandinavian countries, but in spite of this, and through the opening up of other sources of supply from the Empire—notably of bacon from Canada—the food position was so well secured that it was possible to double the initial ration of bacon and butter. Supplies of these commodities in store are far in excess of the normal, and no anxiety is felt for the immediate future. The fact cannot be ignored that the supplies to take the place of those cut off from Denmark have to be borne much longer distances, as in the case of bacon from Canada and butter from New Zealand, and they cannot be expected to come in at the rate they have done in the first seven months of the war. Some reduction of the large stocks in hand is inevitable sooner or later. The Ministry of Food is confident that, with home production, the imported supplies will be enough to keep the people at home, as well as the Forces, in full health and vigour. Rationing Changes

Another factor affecting the food position is that Danish supplies were brought here in Danish ships, which will no longer be available unless the masters of those at sea follow the advice given them to come into British and French ports. It may be possible to replace this volume of shipping to come extent by Norwegian ships. The needs of the British force in Norway will also make demands on shipping. The importance of cargo space is evident, and the advice of the Minister of Food to avoid waste in every direction needs no underlining. One way in which the public can help is to eat more potatoes, for as their consumption goes up that of bread goes down. In general, recent changes in rationing are working satisfactorily. The doubling of the butter ration —not that it has meant that the full 8 ounces per person have been drawn—has had the useful result of relieving the strain on the production of margarine.

The demand for margarine has increased considerably, but arrangements were made for improving the supply. Since pork was taken off the list supplies have had to be adjusted, as in the London area, where there was a shortage last week, but no difficulty is expected in carrying out this temporary measure. Housewives who wish to preserve eggs for the winter are advised to do so now, as eggs are unlikely to be cheaper.