§ 55. Mr. Colegateasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he is aware that his Department have failed to provide protection for seed potatoes distributed by rail by his Department, as required by the Potatoes (1941 Crop) (Control) (No. 2) Order, 1941, and that many hundreds of tons of valuable seed potatoes have in consequence become a total loss; and whether he will take steps to see that in future the Order in question is obeyed by all officials engaged in this work?
Major Lloyd GeorgeNo, Sir. I am not aware that extensive loss of seed potatoes has resulted from failure to provide protection during transit. Inspections have revealed that, of 161 tons 5 cwt. about which complaints were made, 13 tons 3 cwt. were damaged. Instructions have been given to all concerned to ensure that seed potatoes are properly protected.
§ Mr. ColegateSurely my right hon. and gallant Friend is aware that large numbers of railway trucks throughout the country are carrying seed potatoes without any straw or any other adequate protection?
Major Lloyd GeorgeThe obligation to protect potatoes is upon the people engaged in the transaction. Where the Ministry are a party to the consignment we are responsible; otherwise we are not.
§ Mr. ColegateIs the right hon. and gallant Gentleman not aware that I am referring to consignments from Eire for which the Ministry is responsible?
Major Lloyd GeorgeIn the case of consignments from Eire in which the Ministry is concerned instructions have been issued that all wagons must be well protected.
§ Sir Ernest SheppersonIs it not the case that a great deal more damage is done to potatoes coming from Scotland by water than by rail?