HC Deb 10 February 1947 vol 433 cc1374-5
70. Mr. Piratin

asked the President of the Board of Trade the countries from which pineapples were imported during 1946, indicating the respective values from each country.

Sir S. Cripps

Total imports of pineapples in 1946 amounted to £153,000, of which all but £1,000 come from the Azores.

Mr. Piratin

Does the Minister think it was essential for this country to import pineapples at a cost of £153,000, in view of the fact that, though I. too, am a lover of fruit, I am not able to afford the price of pineapples at 20s. each? Will he restrict the imports of these pineapples?

Sir S. Cripps

Quite a number of pineapples, I understand, have been sold off barrows to people who are not very rich people; and they do give some variety to the diet.

Mr. Piratin

Does the Minister disagree that pineapples are being sold at 20s. each? Does he really think the working class can buy them at that price?

Sir S. Cripps

I am afraid I have not seen any at that price.

Mr. Piratin

The right hon. and learned Gentleman should ask his wife.

Sir S. Cripps

In any case, it is a question for the Minister of Food.

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