§ 39. Sir J. D. REESasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture whether the shipments of sulphate of ammonia from Great Britain to Holland have risen from 3,000 or 4,000 tons a year to 5,000 tons a month, for which quantity export licences were granted in October; if so, whether the need of the British farmer for fertilisers is receiving the same attention as the wants of neutral nations; and whether it is certain that the increased quantities of sulphate of ammonia and other commodities of potential military uses do not pass on to Germany?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Acland)The quantity of sulphate of ammonia now allowed to be exported under special licence is that stated by the hon. Member. It is shipped to Holland under an arrangement with the Dutch Government, who have undertaken to distribute it direct to farmers in such a way as to guard against the possibility of its re-export. The need of the British farmer for fertilisers is not receiving the same attention as the wants of neutral nations, but a great deal more attention. I cannot 594 answer that part of the question which relates to other commodities of various potential uses.
§ Sir J. D. REESIs not sulphate of ammonia used or usable for making munitions of war?
§ Mr. ACLANDYes, and that is why we are so anxious for a guarantee that it does not get to Germany.