53. Mr. Astorasked the Minister of Food whether he will consider the possibility of providing a market in this country for the high-class wines and liqueurs at present being produced in Palestine.
§ The Minister of Food (Colonel Llewellin)In view of the limited shipping space at present available, I regret that I cannot see my way to adopt my hon. Friend's suggestion.
Mr. AstorIs my right hon. and gallant Friend aware that Jewish enterprise in Palestine has produced some very high-grade products and will he consider trying to give them a market in England when the shipping situation improves?
§ Mr. StokesBefore giving consideration to this request, will the right hon. and gallant Gentleman consider giving priority to shipments of olive oil which every housekeeper wants?
§ Colonel LlewellinThat is rather a different question. We are getting as much olive oil into the country as we can. That is decided, not on shipping, but on supply grounds.
Commander Loeker-LampsonCan we have a sample of this Palestinian wine and test it in order to decide upon its value?
§ Colonel LlewellinPerhaps my hon. Friend who put the Question down will perform that service.
§ Mr. G. GriffithsWill the hon. Member put his Question down again, as the Noble Lady the Member for Sutton (Viscountess Astor) is not in her place?
§ Mr. GallacherWill the right hon. and gallant Gentleman tell us who will consume this wine, in view of the fact that we have been advised that there are no rich left in the country?