HC Deb 21 May 1930 vol 239 cc398-9
62. Mr. DUNCAN MILLAR

asked the President of the Board of Trade the number of consignments of potatoes landed in Scotland during the present year for domestic use and the total quantity of potatoes represented by these consignments, giving the countries from which they were exported?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. W. R. Smith)

During the period 1st January to 30th April, 1930, 1,171 cwts. of potatoes imported into the United Kingdom were registered as landed at ports in Scotland. Of this quantity 1,167 cwts. were consigned from the Netherlands and re-exported, the remaining 4 cwts. being consigned from the Irish Free State. The total quantity registered at ports in Scotland during this period was entered by eight landings, but it is not possible to state the number of consignments represented by these landings.

65. Mr. MILLAR

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the proportion of the 973 certificates issued by the Department of Agriculture for Scotland in 1929 in respect of potatoes destined for export which applied to seed potatoes and ware potatoes respectively; and the total quantities of each class exported under these certificates?

The SECRETARY of STATE for SCOTLAND (Mr. William Adamson)

I regret that I am unable to give the desired information. The certificates referred to are issued in compliance with the requirements of the importing countries in respect of freedom from disease or infection, and do not differentiate between seed and ware potatoes.

Mr. MILLAR

Can the right hon. Gentleman not ascertain from the Department of Agriculture for Scotland how many of these consignments represent seed potatoes and how many ware potatoes? Is the Department not in a position to give that information?

Mr. ADAMSON

I can give the hon. and learned Member the total amount, but I cannot distinguish between the ware potatoes and the seed potatoes.

Mr. MILLAR

Can the right hon. Gentleman not have inquiries made with a view to ascertaining this information?

Mr. ADAMSON

indicated assent.