29. Mr. MacCALLUM SCOTTasked the Secretary for Scotland whether, in view of the fact that the shortage of potatoes is more pronounced in Scotland than in other parts of the United Kingdom, and the present restrictions therefore operate inequitably towards Scotland, he will approach the respective Departments in order to secure either the exportation of a limited amount of potatoes from Ireland or a reduction in railway freight charges on potatoes imported from distant parts of England?
§ The SECRETARY for SCOTLAND (Mr. Munro)I am making careful investigation into the Scottish shortage, in consultation with the Food Controller and with my advisers at the Board of Agriculture for Scotland, and in any action that may be taken the suggestions of my hon. Friend will be taken into account.
Mr. SCOTTIs the right hon. Gentleman give us an assurance that consumers in Scotland will not be charged more for potatoes than consumers in England?
§ Captain DONELANIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that too many potatoes are being already exported from Ireland?
§ Mr. MUNROI was not aware of that, but all the circumstances will be kept in view in reaching an early solution.
§ Mr. FLAVINIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that in many of the poorer districts in Ireland eating potatoes are not obtainable for food of the poor people?
§ Mr. MUNROIn that case the condition of Ireland is not dissimilar from that of the adjoining countries.
§ Mr. HOGGEWill the right hon. Gentleman try and influence the Government to appoint a Food Controller who understands food questions in Scotland?
Mr. SCOTTIs the right hon. Gentleman considering a proposal to charge higher prices in Scotland than in England?
§ Mr. MUNROThat question has been considered in view of many other suggestions. It is not lost sight of.
§ Mr. FIELDIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Agricultural Council of Ireland passed a resolution against the exportation of potatoes, and why should they be overruled?