§ 34. Major MCMICKINGasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether, in view of the possibility of the supply of potatoes in July and August exceeding the demand, the Food Controller has considered the advisability of using the potato as an ingredient in the manufacture of bread; and, if so, can he say whether any decision has been come to in this matter?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANThe suggestion referred to in the first part of this question is under consideration. It is clearly not possible to come to any decision on the matter until it is known how great will be the supply of potatoes.
§ 37. Mr. FELLasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether Holland has agreed to sell to this country one quarter of the potato crop raised in Holland this year; if he has any estimate of the potato crop being grown in the. United Kingdom; and, seeing that the same may exceed the amount which can be used usefully will he consider the advisability of employing the tonnage for bringing the crop from Holland to greater advantage by bringing some other food to this country?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANArrangement have been made with Holland for the offer to this country of a part of the potato crop. It is hoped that these potatoes may be available before the main crop of potatoes of the United Kingdom can be lifted. In any case, I have no reason to believe that the total supply of potatoes will exceed the amount that can be used advantageously.
§ Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEHas the right hon. Gentleman seen the statement in the Press this morning on that point?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANYes.