HC Deb 23 July 1947 vol 440 cc1219-20
55. Mr. Gammans

asked the Minister of Food what price has been paid for citrus fruit imported from the U.S.A. during the past six months as compared with the prices paid for similar fruit from the British West Indies.

Dr. Summerskill

As I informed the hon. Member on 21st May, I am not prepared to disclose the prices paid by my Department for particular purchases. It is not in the national interest to do so.

Mr. Gammans

Am I then to understand that money can be used in this way, and that there can be a differentiation against a British Colony without any figures whatever being revealed?

Dr. Summerskill

I have told the hon. Gentleman before that any business man would regard this disclosure as detrimental to negotiations.