§ 33. Mr. Butcherasked the Minister of Food whether he will make a statement on the quantities of food that may be expected from Eire; and the prices paid for the various commodities.
§ Mr. StracheyAgreement has been reached in principle with the Eire Government about revised prices for agricultural produce. The new prices will be announced as soon as the necessary detailed schedules have been worked out. We hope for an early increase in the supply of fat cattle and meat from Eire. Larger supplies of other produce must depend on increased production, which may have to await an improvement in the world feedingstuffs position.
§ Mr. ButcherIn view of the recently announced cut in potatoes, is it proposed to import potatoes from Ireland?
§ Mr. StracheyYes, Sir. We hope to import some seed potatoes immediately, but that, I am afraid, is all that Eire has to sell at the moment.