§ 67. Major Legge-Bourkeasked the Minister of Food why private potato merchants are not allowed to deal with stock reserves for their clients; and why these reserves have to be handled by merchants acting for his Department.
§ Dr. SummerskillThere is nothing to prevent a potato merchant maintaining a stock reserve. In order to provide adequately against shortages between seasons, however, there must be a national reserve centrally controlled so that supplies can be sent where they are needed. Merchants are employed by my Department as agents for the purchase of the national reserve in order that full use may be made of trade facilities for this purpose.
§ Major Legge-BourkeIf I bring a special case to the attention of the hon. Lady, will she look into it? What is happening is that the merchants who are supplying private individuals are not able to supply stock reserves.
§ Dr. SummerskillYes, Sir.