Wry observations of rural life in north-east Scotland written in Doric by Barrowsgate.

Mistress Barrowsgate tells Barrowsgate how rationing is going to work in their house.

Context: In January 1940, the British government introduced food rationing. The scheme was designed to ensure fair shares for all at a time of national shortage. The Ministry of Food was responsible for overseeing rationing. Every man, woman and child was given a ration book with coupons. These were required before rationed goods could be purchased. Basic foodstuffs such as sugar, meat, fats, bacon and cheese were directly rationed by an allowance of coupons. “Housewives” had to register with particular retailers.