§ 49. Mr. Boothbyasked the Minister of Food whether he will now take eels off the list of main dishes in hotels and restaurants.
§ Mr. BoothbyIs the Minister aware that eels are not only nutritious but are full of fat, that there are plenty available and that a large number of people will not, unfortunately, make them their main course at a meal? Why does he not take steps to stimulate the consumption of this food?
§ Sir B. SmithThe hon. Gentleman no doubt desires stimulation of the breeding of eels—
§ Mr. BoothbyNo, not breeding, I want to eat them.
§ Sir B. SmithThe average wholesale price of eels has risen, since 1940, from 11d. per pound to 6s. 3d. per pound. That ought to stimulate them.
§ Sir B. SmithNo, that is in the open market.