HC Deb 08 April 1946 vol 421 c1647
54. Mr. Osborne

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he is aware of the delay in importing November heading broccoli seed from the U.S.A. by the Seeds Import Board; and what action he is taking to expedite delivery to seed merchants in this country.

Mr. T. Williams

Arrangements to import November heading broccoli seed from the United States of America were made in January, 1944. The delay in shipment to the United Kingdom is due to difficulties of transport from the area of production to the port of loading. All practicable steps have been taken to expedite delivery.

Mr. Osborne

Does not the Minister realise that, unless the seed is made available within the next week or two, it will be much too late for this season, and that it is of great importance to the seed merchant and to the market gardener?

Mr. Williams

I readily appreciate the point the hon. Member makes. He must also appreciate that I have no power to say what shall or shall not be done in the United States.

Mr. Bossom

Could not the right hon. Gentleman do anything to expedite the delivery of this seed?

Mr. Williams

The only thing we can do is to deal with the firms who are responsible for exporting when exporting quantities are available, and we have done our best to try to get supplies expedited.