HC Deb 04 March 1941 vol 369 cc758-60
34. Rear-Admiral Beamish

asked the Minister of Economic Warfare whether he will give an assurance that there is no change of policy in regard to allowing ships from the United States of America to pass our blockade carrying food for enemy-occupied countries in Europe; and whether there have been any recent official exchanges between this country and the United States of America on this subject?

Mr. Dalton

There is no change in the policy of His Majesty's Government in this matter. The question of allowing ships from the U.S.A. to pass our blockade carrying food for enemy-occupied countries in Europe is, of course, like other questions of common interest, discussed by His Majesty's Ambassador at Washington with the United States authorities from time to time.

Rear-Admiral Beamish

Is it not a fact that but for enemy influence Europe would have no need to fear a food shortage?

Mr. Dalton

The Germans have frequently stated that there is enough food to feed all their subject populations.

Mr. Shinwell

In that case, is it necessary to have any negotiations on the matter with other countries? Why should we allow any foodstuffs to pass?

Mr. Dalton

Perhaps my hon. Friend did not listen to the Answer which I gave. I said that there was no change in the policy of His Majesty's Government on the matter referred to in the Question.

Mr. Shinwell

But the Minister did indicate that discussions might proceed on matters of common interest, which seemed to imply that this was a question which might be discussed. I ask him why, if the Germans say there is sufficient food for subject peoples, there should be a question of discussions?

Mr. Thurtle

Is it not a fact that the Germans sometimes do not tell the truth?

Mr. Dalton

I was about to make the same sugestion to my hon. Friend, and I would also add that many discussions take place which, as he well knows, lead to no results.

Mr. McGovern

May we take it that one of the hopes held out of starving the Germans into surrender is now completely gone by the board?

Mr. Dalton

No, sir. No hopes that I have ever held have gone by the board.

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