WW2 Rationing Questions

Rationing may well be needed again if we are to tackle climate change effectively. How else will scarce resources be shared fairly? The experiences of those who remember rationing will be invaluable in designing an effective system which gains public co-operation.

If you are over 70, or know someone who is, and experienced rationing please try these questions on my web site.

Alternatively you could email the answers to malcolmcro@aol.com with the subject WW2 Rationing.

You may find it easier to record the answers and fill in the form later.

General memory questions

How old were you when war broke out?

How many were living in your house?

How many were in your immediate family (mother father children)?

How many children?

Did you have a car? What year and make?

Who were the radio stars?

What wartime catch phrases can you remember?

What items were rationed at any time during the war?

How far away was the shop where your grocer supplied your rations?

General health

What illnesses and injuries do you remember having between 1939 and 1947?

How far away was the doctor?

Did you go to hospital?

Did you have an operation?

Did you fully recover?

Remembering rationing

Which items on ration ran out first?

What did you do when items ran out?

How did you feel about the ration not being enough for you?

Did your friends and relatives help out when your ration ran out?

Did you keep back part of the ration for parties or Christmas?

Did you find rationing very complicated?

Did you have to help old people sort out their coupons?

What was the sadest experience in rationing and shortages?

What was the funniest experience in rationing and shortages?

Do you think rationing was fair?

Did many people cheat and buy on the black market?

Did any get caught?

Would rationing work today?

Any other comments?