HC Deb 31 March 1936 vol 310 c1794
4. Mr. AMMON

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the shortage of corned beef, that such shortage is likely to continue for some time, and that, as a consequence, the price has increased; and will he, in the circumstances, consider the revision of the quota?

The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Runciman)

The voluntary arrangement for the limitation of imports of foreign canned beef admits of the importation of an aggregate quantity somewhat in excess of the 1933 figure and I see no present reason for revising it. If, however, the hon. Member has any information pointing to a shortage of supplies, I shall be glad to consider it.

Mr. AMMON

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that the public authorities are experiencing a shortage, and that since I put down the question the price has gone up by 5s. a cwt., and that the cause is attributed both to the drought in Australia and to the quota?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I am well aware that there has been some rise in the wholesale price, and if the hon. Gentleman will let me have any specific cases, I shall be very glad to inquire into them.

Mr. EDE

Will the right hon. Gentleman consult with his right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for War as to how we shall be able to conduct a war during the next 10 years if there is a shortage of bully beef?