[Margaret Pilkington]

Margaret, there is a huge difference between your choice to avoid the foods that cause your IBS to flare up and coeliac disease.
And yes it is possible to substitute other foods, but it is not an easy way to live.
Many pre prepared foods have substances in them which are derived from wheat, or could be contaminated by wheat products.
And while you may not mind having porridge and rice cake I stead of bread and cornflakes, others may not enjoy such foods.
I hate anything which has oats in it and although I don't mind rice cakes.....it is not a pleasurable way to live when you have to scrutinise all labels for suspect ingredients because if you eat them they make you ill.
I would prefer my taxes to be used for people who need this help, than being given to drug addicts or alcoholics.....now that may be very un PC but I am being totally honest.