HC Deb 10 February 1947 vol 433 cc9-10
13. Brigadier Mackeson

asked the Minister of Food at what average prices f.o.b., barley was purchased in Iraq during the first nine months of 1946; and at what prices f.o.b. maize was purchased in the Argentine during the same period.

Mr. Strachey

As I explained to the hon. Member on 30th October last, I am not prepared to give this information.

Brigadier Mackeson

While appreciating that when negotiations are going on and contracts are being drawn the right hon. Gentleman may not wish to give publicity to any figures that are being discussed, may I ask why the elected representatives of the taxpayers of this country should not be entitled to know the result of any deal in which they are involved?

Mr. Strachey

Perhaps the hon. and gallant Member would care for me to recall my answer on the previous occasion: Our buyers who are all experienced business men, continue to advise me that they would be hampered in their work on behalf of the nation if we disclosed the terms of particular transactions."—[OFFICIAL REPORT.30th October, 1946; Vol.428, c.93.] I shall continue to support them by refusing to make public this information.

Brigadier Mackeson

Is this Fascism or Nazism?

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