MEAT RATIONING

Grey River Argus, 23 October 1943, Page 3

MEAT RATIONING

AUSTRALIAN DECISION QUESTIONED. SYDNEY. Oct. 21. ’ Mr Curtin announced that the British Ministry of Food required Australian meat to provision troops in the Middle East and help maintain the very low civilian ration in. Britain. Australia’s meat ration, to begin hi the middle of January, will be 23 lbs. weekly for adults and 18 ozs. for children under nine years of age. This more than halves the present average weekly consumption of meat. Indications are that the rationing will apply to beef, veal, mutton, lamb and pork. It is believed that a points system, of rationing will operate and that coupons will be needed for the purchase of meat. Processed meat, including tinned meat and small goods sold at ham and beef shops is expected to be coupon-free. The Government believes that as a result of the rationing, between 150,000 and 200.000 tons more meat will be available for export and for the Services. Workers in heavy industry will not receive more than the normal adult allowance. Cabinet’s decision, to adopt the principle of meat rationing was reached after more than five hours’ discussion. It is reported to have been strongly opposed by some Ministers. who contended that its administration would prove difficult and expensive. One opinion expressed was that if Australia’s 1944 record meat production goal were achieved the need for rationing would be diminished considerably, and for tnat reason the decision should be postponed. 4