61. Dr. Russell Thomasasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether the Vegetable Marketing Board have now given authority for the disposal of potatoes and more than two. tons of onions cultivated on the Southampton sports ground and other land which, on account of the restrictions, were rapidly rotting?
Major Lloyd GeorgeThe National Vegetable Marketing Company are not concerned with the disposal of potatoes. My Department has given the Southampton Sports Centre information to facilitate the marketing of its potato crop, which I understand is in sound condition. With regard to onions, I am advised by the National Marketing Company that an application was received by the Company from the Southampton Sports Centre for instructions for the disposal of 3½ cwt. of onions on 9th December, and that the necessary instructions were given on the following day. Further applications from this centre will be dealt with in the same way.
Dr. ThomasIs my right hon. and gallant Friend aware that his information, which differs entirely from that at my disposal, is probably incorrect?
Major Lloyd GeorgeI am sorry to hear that my hon. Friend's information differs from mine, which is based on careful inquiries made by my Department.