§ 55. Squadron-Leader Donnerasked the Minister of Food how much tinned fish has been imported from the U.S.A. in the first six months of this year; and the total cost in dollars of these imports.
§ Dr. SummerskillAbout 39,000 tons of canned fish were imported from the United States of America during the six months ended 30th June, 1947. The approximate total cost was 22,450,000 dollars.
§ Squadron-Leader DonnerIs the hon. Lady aware that this American tinned fish is being sold in my constituency and that the fishmongers on the other side of the street cannot sell their fresh fish, and is not this importation a gross waste of our dwindling dollar resources?
§ Dr. SummerskillI would remind the hon. and gallant Gentleman that 85 per cent. of the imports consists of salmon and pilchards used for points rationing, and that the demand for salmon and pilchards has not yet been met in this country.
§ Mr. SpenceCan the hon. Lady say how much silver hake was imported and does she consider that is essential?
§ Dr. SummerskillI could not give an answer to that question without notice.
§ Mr. Thomas ReidCould the hon. Lady say if it is not a fact that in the case of this tinned fish the tin often costs as much as the fish?