60. Mr. De la Bèreasked the Minister of Food whether in view of the disappointing outcome of his recent visit to the U.S.A. to obtain additional food supplies, he will consider visiting the Dominion countries with a view to thanking them for their efforts and to confirm the preliminary arrangements which have been made.
§ Sir B. SmithMy visit to Washington was undertaken to discuss with the U.S. Administration measures for meeting the world shortage of wheat and rice. As the result of our discussions, the President announced on 6th February far 1155 reaching plans for making increased quantities of wheat available from the U.S.A. for countries needing it This is far from being a disappointing outcome. The Government are in close touch with the wheat exporting countries of the Commonwealth regarding the contributions which they are making to the same cause, and I would like to express my appreciation now of the generous way in which they have responded to our appeal.
Mr. De la BèreIs the right hon. Gentleman not aware that his visit was rather disappointing, and is he not also aware that both the Dominion Governments and the Dominion people have done everything, and continue to do everything, to assist us, and should not he reciprocate and trade with them, and do everything he can to visit them and show our appreciation of what they have done?
§ Sir B. SmithYes, Sir. Given the time and opportunity, I agree.