The primary reason that Oliver asks for more gruel (which is similar to oatmeal) is because he is hungry. The board members of the workhouse where Oliver lives meet and decide that "the poor people like" the room and board they receive.

How does Oliver Twist ask for more?

In Oliver Twist, when Oliver asks the master who's in charge of serving the food for more gruel, the master hits him on the head with a ladle. Mr. Bumble, the parish beadle, is then informed of Oliver's behavior, and the Board of Directors decides to sell the boy for five pounds.

Can I have some more please Oliver Twist?

'Please, sir, I want some more. ' The master was a fat, healthy man; but he turned very pale. He gazed in stupified astonishment on the small rebel for some seconds, and then clung for support to the copper.