§ 1. Mr. Dobbieasked the Minister of Economic Warfare, whether he is aware that between 1st February and 10th April 16 ships, carrying 67,000 tons of wheat and other cereals arrived at Spanish ports; that a further six ships with a load of 29,000 tons of wheat are on the way now, and that this cargo comes from Argentina, Canada and French Morocco; and whether it is in line with British policy to allow these large imports?
§ The Minister of Economic Warfare (Mr. Dalton)Between 1st February and 16th April, 36 ships, carrying approximately 190,000 tons of cereals, arrived in Metropolitan Spain, and 7 ships, with approximately 30,000 tons, in the Canary Islands. Navicerts have been issued for a further 250,000 tons, some part of which is already on its way. So far as I am aware, no cereals have been imported into Spain from French Morocco, but both Canadian and Argentine stocks have contributed. In reply to the last part of the Question, it is not the policy of His Majesty's Government to deprive Spain of
670 the foodstuffs required for the sustenance of the Spanish people. On the contrary, as I informed the House on 30th July, where there is no risk of supplies falling into the hands of the enemy, it is the policy of His Majesty's Government not merely to allow them through our controls but to assist neutral countries to obtain them.
§ Mr. DobbieIs the Minister quite satisfied that the supplies are being used in Spain by the Spaniards?
§ Mr. DaltonYes, Sir. I am sorry to say that we have much evidence from there that there are great starvation and privation in Spain, and I am sure that all this food will be consumed by the Spanish people.