§ 65. Sir G. Foxasked the Minister of Food the amount that has been spent in the last six months on the importation of fresh asparagus, fresh peas and avocado pears from California, U.S.A.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food (Dr. Edith Summerskill)During the last six months asparagus to the c.i.f. value of about fr,160 and peas to the value of about £1,140, have been imported from the United States. Figures for avocado pears are not regularly collected, but imports from the United States in the same period are estimated to have been about 130 worth. Our statistics do not show how much of these imports came from California.
§ Sir G. FoxDoes not the Minister think we could do without these foods and so save the dollars?
§ Dr. SummerskillThe amount imported is very little. Before we issue any further open general -licences we are considering making certain restrictions.
§ Mrs. Jean MannCan the hon. Lady give any indication of who are the recipients of these luxury goods for which we are paying dollars?
§ Major Legge-BourkeCan the hon. Lady say what is the amount of subsidy on each of these items?
§ Dr. SummerskillThese foods are not subsidised by the Government.
§ Mr. SolleyCan the hon. Lady say to what extent we are compelled to have these imports by virtue of Article 9 of the Anglo-American Treaty?
§ Dr. SummerskillI think that it my hon. Friend will read it, he will know.