why was rationing introduced

lack of imported food

german U boats attacked food supplies to Britain

concern over public morale

government was worried that public morale would suffer due to food shortages

food was becoming more expensive

the government wanted to control prices of and access to key goods

farm production was impacted

because farming output reduced due to skilled farmers overseas

soldiers on western front required food

it was more important to feed soldiers on western front to keep them fit and healthy than people at home

concerns over public health

the fear that lack of nutritious food would affect the health of the public