HC Deb 09 April 1919 vol 114 cc2039-40
92. Lieutenant-Colonel WEIGALL

asked the Food Controller what is the total amount of Japanese peas now held by the Ministry of Food on behalf of the Government, and in the hands of the merchants?

Mr. McCURDY

The stocks of Japanese peas held by the Royal Commission on the Wheat Supply (including a small quantity not yet shipped) amount to 29,000 tons. No information as to the stocks in merchants' hands is available.

93. Lieutenant-Colonel WEIGALL

asked the Food Controller whether immediate steps can be taken to export Japanese peas, now in the hands of the Government, to Allied or enemy countries in order to obviate the inevitable shortage of peas produced in the coming season in this country, unless the position is made clear to farmers in the next fortnight?

Mr. McCURDY

For some time past, licences have been granted to traders for the export of Japanese peas to approved destinations. In view of the cereal position in the Far East, and the uncertainty as to future supplies, it is not considered desirable to dissipate entirely the stocks at present held by the Government.

Lieutenant-Colonel WEIGALL

Is the hon. Gentleman prepared to take any action in view of the fact that there are now huge quantities in the hands of merchants which prevent any sale of home produced peas during this season?

Mr. McCURDY

Licences have already been granted for the export of these stocks.

Lieutenant-Colonel WEIGALL

But where are the peas to go to? The neutral countries refuse to take them and Germany cannot have them because the merchants cannot arrange finance.

Mr. McCURDY

I cannot say how a market can be found if neutral countries are not prepared to take them but that is not the information in my possession.

Lieutenant-Colonel WEIGALL

As neutral countries cannot take them is it not easy to arrange for Germany to have them?