HC Deb 17 October 1939 vol 352 cc657-8
19. Sir Patrick Hannon

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether, in view of the fact that large quantities of concentrated orange juice is being supplied to the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force, and the Mercantile Marine, from California, he is aware of the development which has taken place in the orange-growing industry in South Africa, and the quality of citrous produce in that Dominion; and whether he will take steps to encourage the use of South African fruit and South African juice for His Majesty's Forces?

Mr. Eden

I understand that Government purchases of fruit and fruit juices for the use of His Majesty's Forces mainly consist of canned fruits and lime juice. Such purchases are made by open tender, and, when tendering, Empire producers have the advantage of a substantial preference. Inquiry has failed to confirm the statement in the question that large quantities of concentrated orange juice are being bought for issue to His Majesty's Forces. If my hon. Friend is able to supply me with further particulars, I shall be glad to make further inquiries.

Sir P. Hannon

On the general question, will my right hon. Friend assure the House that wherever possible supplies to troops available from overseas Dominions will be given preferential treatment?

Mr. Eden

Yes, Sir; that is the position, and certainly as far as lime juice is concerned, it will be the impeccable imperial policy.

Major Milner

Will that policy apply to Jaffa oranges from Palestine, which, of course, are the best oranges?

Mr. Eden

Lime juice is not made of oranges.

Major Milner

I agree, but the question refers to orange juice, and will any preference be given to Palestine from which these oranges come?

Mr. Eden

I understand—I do not know why—that His Majesty's Forces prefer lime juice to orange juice, and, therefore, oranges do not arise.