HC Deb 05 February 1941 vol 368 cc938-9
52. Mr. Parker

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Trade, as representing the Ministry of Food, the approximate number and total weight of food parcels received in this country from abroad in each of the last three months; and whether he will consider utilising the shipping space so taken up in importing bulk supplies of food for the population as a whole?

Major Lloyd George

Whilst there is no information as to the number and weight of parcels of food gifts there is no evidence that more than a small quantity of mail space is being occupied with these gifts. If it becomes apparent that substantial shipping space is so occupied, the policy on this matter will be reconsidered.

Mr. Parker

Does not the Minister think it is a very unfair way of importing food?

Major Lloyd George

There is no evidence that it is being done on anything but a very small scale, but if it becomes substantial, the whole thing will be reconsidered.