HC Deb 17 November 1919 vol 121 cc625-6
86. Mr. G. DOYLE

asked the Food Controller if he is aware of the fact that much of the bacon now being retailed has greatly deteriorated through long storage; and what action, if any, he proposes to take to remedy this defect?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of FOOD(Mr. McCurdy)

It is the case that some of the bacon now being retailed has deteriorated to a certain extent owing to long storage. During the period of decontrol between the 31st of March and 9th August last, large stocks of bacon were imported on private Account into this country in excess of the demand for consumption; and it was accordingly necessary to place part of these stocks into storage so far as storage could be found in order to avoid serious deterioration and waste. All the American bacon that has been distributed since 9th August is bacon that was imported into this country on private account, and not by the Ministry of Food, but from now onwards bacon purchased by the Ministry of Food will arrive in increasing quantities; and as shipments are now being controlled in such a way as to meet the consumptive demand, it will presently be possible for the bacon to be distributed to the retail shops as it arrives.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Is it possible to re-export any excess bacon to distressed districts of Europe?

Mr. McCURDY

I do not think it would be practicable.