HC Deb 10 April 1946 vol 421 cc1929-30
71. Sir David Robertson

asked the Minister of Food what quantities of Australian mutton, lamb and beef he intends to import during the next six months; and whether that amount represents Australia's exportable surplus for Britain.

Sir B. Smith

During the six months to the end of next September it is estimated that 64,000 tons of frozen mutton, lamb and beef, including a small quantity of pork and offals, will be imported into the United Kingdom from Australia. This quantity, together with a quantity of 24,000 tons for direct shipment to our Forces overseas, represents the total quantity which the Australian Government has estimated will become available for the United Kingdom in the period.

72. Sir D. Robertson

asked the Minister of Food, what quantities of New Zealand lamb and mutton he intends to import during the next six months; and whether that amount represents New Zealand's exportable surplus for Britain.

Sir B. Smith

During the six months to the end of next September it is expected that 250,000 tons of mutton and lamb, including small quantities of beef, veal, pork and offals, will be imported into the United Kingdom from New Zealand. This quantity, together with a quantity of 8,000 tons for direct shipment to our Forces overseas, represents the total quantity which the New Zealand Government estimates will become available for the United Kingdom during the period.

Sir D. Robertson

Can the Minister state if he has enough refrigerated ships to bring supplies to this country during the six months period?

Sir B. Smith

So far as these two countries are concerned, yes, Sir.