In the Reich Ministry of Food, a discussion took place today between Minister Dr.

Luther and trade union representatives from all directions.

In the introduction, the minister gave an overview of the overall food situation in Germany and outlined the prospects for the coming months.

According to the latest estimates, the bread supply is secured until the end of June or mid-July with the help of the grain already ordered from abroad and the levy grain that is still arriving.

The supply of potatoes is generally satisfactory.

On the other hand, the fat supply is difficult, since both margarine and lard have to be obtained from abroad in their raw materials for the most part.

The deterioration in currency conditions would probably make certain consumer restrictions necessary.

Using figures, the minister then gave a picture of meat consumption, which reached its lowest level in 1921, then experienced a slight improvement, but has now fallen alarmingly again.

However, the government is making efforts to prepare the import of frozen meat to a greater extent and it is hoped that it will be possible to import frozen meat as payment for goods.

Then the minister spoke in detail about the food situation in the Ruhr area.

The French, when they invaded, were astounded at the low stocks of food and assumed that the existing stocks had been cleared away from unoccupied territory.

That was a fatal error on the French side.

Apparently, even in French government circles, one is completely in the dark about the economic situation of the German people.

Apply the French standard to the impoverished Germany, which has been hit by a new occupation, and in this respect the invasion of the French should at least bring an explanation of the true conditions in Germany.

The Reich government is making every effort to ensure supplies to the Ruhr area.

But she must and will do everything to prevent the food procured for the Ruhr population from migrating away.

There was a danger that this food would be acquired by the French and unfortunately also by German buyers who were paid by the French and exported to the rest of the occupied territory.

In the interests of the entire German population, this should not happen.

According to the Ministry, the sugar stocks in the country are sufficient, so that a forced economy is out of the question.

However, the population is deterred from buying by the prices now in force.

The government is determined to reduce rail freight for potatoes and other important foodstuffs by up to half.

No more milk in cafes and restaurants

Finally, Dr.

Luther after information about austerity measures that are necessary under the present circumstances.

The good life that prevails in certain circles must be vigorously opposed.

The consumption in the restaurants is also too high.

We are therefore considering imposing certain restrictions.

Consideration should be given to limiting the number of meat dishes in restaurants, only allowing eggs for lunch and banning the consumption of milk in cafes and restaurants.