§ 81. Mr. Dodds-Parkerasked the Minister of Food what is the estimated potato tonnage available for public consumption in this country between now and August, 1947; whether he estimates that this will be sufficient for public requirements; or what action he is taking to obtain supplies of potatoes from overseas.
§ 87. Air-Commodore Harveyasked the Minister of Food if he will make a statement regarding the potato stocks in this country at the latest date; and how do these stocks compare with last year's figures.
§ Mr. StracheyThe January stocks census shows that supplies of potatoes of the 1946 crop available for consumption are almost exactly the same as those of a year ago. Consumption is, however, running at a higher rate than last year and there would be cause for anxiety if no action were taken. I am, therefore, both arranging for imports and putting in hand with the full cooperation of the trade a voluntary scheme for limiting the present high rate of off-take.
§ Mr. Dodds-ParkerCan the Minister give' an assurance that there will be no rationing of potatoes?
§ Mr. StracheyI see no reason to ration them, because I have the full co-operation of the trade in these matters.
§ Air-Commodore HarveyWill the Minister make representation with a view to seeing that more potatoes are grown during the coming season, particularly on land at Army and Air Force camps?
§ Mr. StracheyThat is a very valuable suggestion.