§ 74. Mr. John Morganasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is prepared to recommend that the growing of potatoes be de-restricted for the ensuing season on the basis of reasonable indemnity to growers, through the Potato Board, in regard to any possible over- supply of market requirements, should emergency conditions not arise mean while?
§ 75. Major Carverasked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in view of the international situation, he will consider recommending the suspension of the restrictions now enforced by the Potato Marketing Board regarding the growing of potatoes?
§ The Minister of Agriculture (Sir Reginald Dorman-Smith)The home potato crop is normally sufficient to meet almost the whole of the country's requirements and, having regard to the arrangements already made for food storage, I do not consider it is necessary to adopt such a proposal.
§ Mr. MorganIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that potatoes are a complete food both for human and animal consumption, and that if a declaration is not made on this matter within a month, a whole year is missed for this purpose?
§ Sir R. Dorman-SmithI fully appreciate the difficulties.
§ Sir Thomas RosbothamIs it not a fact that the present regulations of the Potato Marketing Board provide for a sufficient quantity of potatoes to be grown in this country?
§ Sir R. Dorman-SmithThat is so.