HC Deb 20 March 1946 vol 420 c1866
56. Mr. Stokes

asked the Minister of Food whether he will state the amount of wheat and flour held in reserve at 31st December, 1943.

Dr. Summerskill: It is not possible to say what quantities of wheat and flour were regarded as being held in reserve at 31st December, 1943. At that time provision had to be made for a number of contingencies, and stocks were held to the extent to which c

Mr. Stokes: Is. the hon. Lady aware that Stamford University. California, in June, 1943, computed that the reserves of wheat and flour in this country stood at 3,500,000 tons, and if they can give the figures, why cannot the Government do so?

Dr. Summerskill

I cannot understand why my hon. Friend put his question if he has already got the information.

Mr. Stokes

In view of the most unsatisfactory reply, I beg to give notice that I shall raise this matter at an early opportunity.