HC Deb 19 May 1930 vol 239 cc29-30
63. Mr. ALBERY

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he can give any information as to the cause of the large increase in the import of oats into this country from Germany, from 151,000 cwt. in 1927 to 2,488,000 cwt. far the year 1929?

Mr. N. BUXTON

The increase in exports, of oats from Germany, not only to the United Kingdom but to other countries as well, is undoubtedly attributable in a large measure to the considerable increase which has taken place in the production of oats in Germany during the past few years, especially in the case of the last two crops. In actual fact during the last two years Germany has become on balance an exporter of oats whereas previously the reverse was the case. It is extremely difficult to estimate from statistics the degree of importance to be attached to the effect of the German Import Bond system and of the variations in the face value of the bond which have taken place during the period in question, in providing an additional stimulus to the exportation of oats. The statistics make it clear that it is not the case that an increase in the face value of the bond has automatically resulted in additional exports to this country.

Mr. ALBERY

Will the right hon. Gentleman further study the means which Germany took to increase her production of oats and to make her a bigger exporter of oats and see whether they are worth considering for adoption by this country?

Mr. BUXTON

I shall be glad to give the exact statistics if the hon. Member will put down a question.

Major ROSS

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the very serious consequences that this importation has had on the oat producing districts of Scotland and Northern Ireland, and is he indifferent to that state of affairs?

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