§ 68. Sir Adrian Baillieasked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster whether he is aware that this year's apple crop 1935 is the largest grown in this country and in consequence it is anticipated there will be a short crop in 1940; that thousands of tons are now being wasted through lack of demand much of which might be preserved in cans; whether he will take steps to assist canners in the matter of supplies of cans, labour and waiving Factory Act restrictions to increase their output; and whether he will consult with the catering authorities in order to make use of home-grown culinary apples in the meals supplied to His Majesty's Forces?
§ Mr. W. S. MorrisonI would refer the hon. Member to the reply given by my right hon. Friend the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries to the hon. Member for Don Valley (Mr. T. Williams) on 2nd October. I understand that arrangements have now been made for a substantially increased quantity of home-grown apples to be absorbed by the canning, jam and cider industries, all of which I am informed are now working to full capacity. Inquiries are being made by my Department on the lines suggested in the last part of the question.