§ 9. Sir Waldron Smithersasked the Minister of Food how many potato bags are owned by his Ministry; if he is aware that some of the bags are unsuitable for use with potatoes; and if he will only supply bags when merchants bags are not available.
§ Mr. StracheyMy Department owns approximately 15 million potato bags. Every care is taken to issue sound bags, but if the hon. Member has received a complaint I will gladly have it looked into. To try to use merchants' branded bags for Ministry-owned potatoes would prevent quick and even distribution.
§ Sir W. SmithersDoes the Minister realise that State interference with distribution causes frustration, shortages and delays, and consequent loss to the taxpayer; and is he aware that many merchants' bags which could be used and which would be a saving of bags to the Ministry of Food, are not being used?
§ Mr. StracheyNo, Sir.
§ Sir W. SmithersI will send the right hon. Gentleman a letter about it.