HC Deb 15 December 1937 vol 330 cc1158-9
46. Mr. Sandys

asked the Prime Minister which Minister is responsible for the question of food storage in relation to National Defence; what is the Government's policy on this subject; and what action, if any, has as yet been taken to store additional reserves of grain or any other foodstuffs in preparation for an emergency?

The Prime Minister

In reply to the first part of my hon. Friend's question, provision for any expenditure which might be required for the purpose of food storage would fall to be included in the Parliamentary Vote for the Board of Trade. But since food storage is really a part of the larger subject of National Defence, any questions upon the policy of food storage should be addressed to the Minister for the Co-ordination of Defence. As regards the last part of the question, I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer given to the hon. Member for Leeds, West (Mr. V. Adams) on 3rd November by my right hon. Friend the Minister for the Co-ordination of Defence.

Sir Arthur Salter

Have the Prime Minister and the Minister for the Coordination of Defence satisfied themselves personally that the progress made on this problem is really proportionate to its urgency and importance, and, in view of the fact that more than a year has now elapsed since the Food (Defence Plans) Department was created, can the right hon. Gentleman undertake to make a statement at an early date, at least as to the main decision of the Government?

Mr. Sandys

In view of the many assurances given by the Government during the last few years that they are actively considering this question, is my right hon. Friend aware of the great regret that will be felt that no decision has been reached on policy, and no definite action taken in this urgent matter?

The Prime Minister

Both those questions are questions about policy, which, I have already said, should be addressed to the Minister for the Co-ordination of Defence.

Mr. Sandys

Is my hon. Friend aware that I did address such a question to the Minister for the Co-ordination of Defence?

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