FOOD RATIONING

Otago Daily Times, Issue 26043, 5 January 1946, Page 4

FOOD RATIONING

The agreement of the Government of the Dominion to a reduction in the ration scale of the Second New Zealand Expeditionary Force in Italy, with the safeguarding provision that additional food can be purchased at the discretion of the General Officer Commanding, is unexceptionable. The living and working conditions of the troops are now such that a reduction in the full ration scale would be justifiable even if there were not such _ an urgent need in Europe for every ounce of foodstuffs that can be spared. Service ration scales are in any case varied according to climatic and other conditions, and all that the present reduction entails is a change from the operational scale to the garrison scale. Medical authorities both in New Zealand and with the troops themselves are convinced that the new scale is quite adequate for present' needs. Apart also from the authority given to the General Officer Commanding to purchase additional foods, it is probable that most units will already be following this practice by the purchase of vegetables and other items out of regimental funds. The comparison between the new scale for the troops and that received by civilians in the United Kingdom, which was published in our columns yesterday, should be thoughtfully studied by every citizen of this Dominion. Where the New Zealand scale can be compared with the published figures, it will be seen that we are receiving something between the two scales, but although in regard to meat, bacon, and cooking fats no comparison is possible, it is apparent that we are in a very 'favoured position. Furthermore, we have the advantage of being able to procure an ample supply of fresh milk, and a wide variety of fruits and vegetables to supplement the diet. There should be no need at this stage to emphasise the dire food shortage in Europe. For months past there have been frequent warnings by observers in all walks of life of the dangers of the situation, and appeals have been made for urgent assistance. It is too late now for any effective aid during the winter months to be given from this distance, but the effects of these seasonal hardships as well as the difficulties of reorganisation which still have to be coped with, will necessitate the continuance of assistance for some months yet, perhaps even for another year. We in New Zealand are receiving more than our soldiers overseas, and more than the people of Great Britain, so much more that a reduction is not only possible, but is also morally justified.