HC Deb 27 February 1946 vol 419 cc1919-20
56. Sir David Robertson

asked the Minister of Food if he is aware of the "black market in poultry and game; and what steps he is taking to suppress it.

Sir B. Smith

I am aware of the black market in poultry, but do not know of any large scale illicit trade in game. If the hon. Member has any information of such dealings, I shall be glad to have the matter investigated. As regards the second part of the Question, I am discussing with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture further measures to check the black market in poultry.

Sir D. Robertson

Is the Minister aware that it is quite impossible for housewives in South London to get any poultry; and does he not realise that the black market is supplying hotels and restaurants in the West End of London, the records and deliveries of which are open to the inspection of the Minister's officials, who are failing in their duty?

Sir B. Smith

All I can say is that the amount of poultry is about one per cent, of the total. It is not a commodity that one can handle on a rationing basis. With regard to the last part of the supplementary question, every investigation is made and I take action on every case that is reported to me.

57. Sir D. Robertson

asked the Minister of Food if, with the object of suppressing the black market, he will arrange to import poultry from Canada for which a market will be required as a result of the increased egg production in the Dominion.

Sir B. Smith

I am considering the question of importing poultry from Canada and hope to be in a position to make a statement shortly.

Sir D. Robertson

Is the Minister aware that exactly the same problem faced the Ministry of Food in 1919, and that they sent out Mr. Juniper of Smithfield, who was able to import very large quantities, and so suppress the black market?

Sir B. Smith

The real point is dollars. One has to face that fact. I know there is a certain amount of poultry there, and I shall do all I can to get it, but in the final analysis it is a question of dollars and of putting one food against another.