HC Deb 09 December 1946 vol 431 cc753-4
53. Mr. Beechman

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he will take steps to ensure that the winter flower-growing industry in this country, which horticulturists are now working to reinstate, is given a reasonable opportunity to recover from its war-time sacrifices; and whether imports of flowers will be planned accordingly.

Mr. T. Williams

Such steps as are practicable having regard to the serious shortages of fuel and other materials, and the continued need for food crops, are being taken to facilitate the recovery of the winter flower-growing industry. The limited imports of flowers announced for 1947 will not, in my view, impede this recovery.

Mr. Beechman

While I appreciate the Minister's interest in this matter, and since the flower acreage in Cornwall has been cut during the war from 1,679 to 681 acres, and there has been no corresponding cut at all in France, may I ask if he will make the most strenuous representations to the Board of Trade that their intention to grant licences to import 500 tons of flowers from 15th December to 1st March gravely threatens our efforts to restore this industry and that there are many other things which could be imported?

Mr. Williams

I am afraid the hon. Member is quite wrong in his conclusion. Of the 500 tons to be imported between 15th December and 15th February from France, anemones and violets are excluded, as these are largely grown in Cornwall.

Mr. Beechman

But what about daffodils and narcissi?