§ 51. Colonel YATEasked the Prime Minister whether the attention of the Subcommittees of the Imperial Defence Committee that are now considering the question of food supply in time of national 1700 emergency has been drawn to the commercial success of the grain elevators and silos now working at Liverpool, and to the proof that has been thus afforded that grain can be kept stored in this country for a considerable time without loss; and whether the Government will now consider the question of encouraging the erection of similar elevators and silos in London and at other ports in the United Kingdom, so as to facilitate the greater storage of grain imported from abroad, and thus to help to maintain the normal food supply of the people, and to avoid the risk of panic prices in time of war or national emergency?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe various aspects, including that referred to by the hon. Member, of the question of the food supplies of this country in times of national emergency are receiving careful consideration by Sub-Commitees of the Committee of Imperial Defence. When these investigations are completed the Government will consider the adoption of any measures which may seem advisable.
§ Mr. C. BATHURSTCan the right hon. Gentleman give any indication how long these investigations will take before the Report is made?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThey have been going on a considerable time. I think it is desirable they should be exhausted, and therefore would not like to suggest a limit, but I hope the period will not be long.