Mr. De la Bère(by Private Notice) asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he can now give an estimate of the probable yield of this season's plum crop, and of what the surplus is likely to be; and what steps are proposed to be taken by the Minister of Food to ensure that no part of the crop is wasted?
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food (Mr. Boothby)I am advised by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture that the total yield of the plum crop, which a few weeks ago was estimated at 100,000 tons, is now not expected to exceed 90,000. The reduced 1404 estimate is due to the effects upon the crop of the prolonged period of almost unbroken dry weather in the late spring and early summer. A crop of this size, under normal peace-time conditions, would probably result in a surplus of from 20,000 to 30,000 tons, but with a greatly increased demand on the part of the jam and canning industries, due to the partial failure of the soft fruit crops, it is estimated that the actual surplus over total domestic and commercial requirements will not exceed 10,000 tons. Arrangements are being made with the jam manufacturers for this amount of plum pulp to be laid down by them in excess of their own requirements for the coming season, and to be held for later use either for jam making or for other forms of industrial consumption.
My hon. Friend will understand that the estimate of the total crop, upon which the estimate of the surplus depends, is largely conjectural. There are no reliable statistical data available on which to base a firm estimate. There appears to be no doubt, however, that there will be an abundant supply of plums to meet all demands, both domestic and industrial, and that there will be no justification for high prices. My Noble Friend hopes that in these circumstances it will not be necessary to impose a price control, but it is his intention to make a Maximum Prices Order if prices tend to rise above a reasonable level.
Mr. De la BèreCan my hon. Friend tell me whether the Minister of Food will consider making a fixed price instead of a maximum price, because it is sometimes impossible to get a maximum price? Is he further aware that this is a very important matter to Evesham and Pershore?
§ Mr. BoothbyI am aware that it is a very important matter to Evesham and Pershore.
§ Mr. ShinwellWith the greatest respect, Mr. Speaker, may I ask whether the putting down of a Private Notice Question on such a nature is not an abuse of Private Notice Questions? May I further ask whether this Question was inspired by the Department?
§ Mr. SpeakerIt is for me to decide on the importance of a Private Notice Question. I thought the plum crop was coming on.