HC Deb 07 March 1934 vol 286 c1806
23. Mr. L. SMITH

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he can state the causes explaining the largely increased imports of barley in 1933?

Captain Sir GEORGE BOWYER

I have been asked to reply. Although the imports of barley in 1933 were 57 per cent. higher than in 1932, they could not be regarded as abnormal, being only 3.6 per cent. higher than in 1931 and 5 per cent. higher than 1930. The 1933 home crop was 17 per cent. smaller than in 1932 owing to the reduced acreage, and comprised an exceptionally large proportion of barley of good quality suitable for brewing. These facts, combined with the increased demand for feeding barley in this country, explain the increase in the imports of barley of feeding quality last year.

Mr. SMITH

Will the hon. and gallant Gentleman get in touch with his right hon. Friend and give careful attention to the matter during the next few months?

Sir G. BOWYER

Certainly.