HC Deb 23 July 1946 vol 425 c1872
61. Mr. Watkins

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer why he still permits the use of our exchange for importing luxury peaches and melons from Holland by air; and if he will take steps to stop this.

Mr. Dalton

It is the policy of His Majesty's Government to make it possible for all sections of the population to eat more fruit. The Dutch, moreover, are good customers, as well as good friends, of ours, and we should be glad by restoring mutually advantageous trade, to help them to recover from the effects of the occupation of their country by the Germans.

Mr. Watkins

Would it not be much cheaper if people picked blackberries?

Mr. Dalton

I would like to tell my hon. Friend that a Treasury official bought a very good Dutch peach for 4d.