HC Deb 13 March 1946 vol 420 cc1103-4
71. Mr. Longden

asked the Minister of Food if he is aware that Eireann producers are eager to export more foodstuffs to Britain, but that the prices offered are inconsistent with the costs of production; and if he will open negotiations with the Government of Eire for the purposes of settling price rates and relieving the food situation at home.

Dr. Summerskill

As my right hon. Friend is satisfied that the prices offered to Eire producers are sufficient to encourage exports to Britain, he sees no reason to open special negotiations.

Mr. Longden

Can the hon. Lady assure us that no political prejudice now stands in the way?

Dr. Summerskill

I can give the hon. Member that assurance

Mr. Stokes

Is it not a fact that the production of foodstuffs in Eire has been considerably reduced in the last three years as a result of the consistent policy of the Government in refusing—

Mr. Speaker

That is another question.

77. Mr. Longden

asked the Minister of Food if he is aware that Eire is the second biggest exporter of foodstuffs to Britain; and if he will consider the mutual advantage that would come from the issuing of more licences to the exporters of British agricultural machinery, feeding stuffs and fertilisers to Eire.

Dr. Summerskill

Although Eire is not the second biggest exporter of foodstuffs to Britain, as my hon. Friend suggests, we are anxious to give every encouragement to her exports. So far as concerns agricultural machinery and fertilisers, all the supplies possible are being provided for her out of the limited quantities available, but regard must be paid to other needs, particularly those of United Kingdom agriculture, and to our obligations under Combined Food Board arrangements. As regards feeding stuffs, exports from the United Kingdom are not at present possible.