HC Deb 20 June 1932 vol 267 cc765-6
25. Mr. REMER

asked the Minister of Agriculture if his attention has been called to the continued importation of chickens from Russia which are being sold wholesale at 5d. a pound; if he is aware of the injury caused to the British poultry keepers; if he has ascertained whether these cheap wholesale prices have been passed on to the consumer by the retailers; and if he will represent those facts to the Import Duties Advisory Committee for their consideration?

Sir J. GILMOUR

Imports of poultry from Russia in recent weeks have been on a greatly reduced scale and have been much smaller than for the corresponding period last year. My information is to the effect that the bulk of these imports consist of hens; that the average whole sale price is in excess of that quoted by my hon. Friend, and that they are purchased mainly by hotels and caterers. While I do not propose to take the steps suggested in the last part of the question, the situation will be closely watched.

Mr. SMITHERS

Why is it necessary to have any imports of poultry at all from Russia?