§ 64. Mr. Yorkasked the Minister of Food what were the dates of the visits to Roumania of his officials; when they discovered an export surplus of maize; whether he has yet been officially informed of this surplus; what price is being asked for the maize; and whether he will ensure that methods and delivery dates will be included in any contract.
§ Dr. SummerskillA Ministry of Food representative visited Roumania between 10th and 28th September. He discovered an exportable surplus of maize during that visit. I have not yet received any official offer or other intimation from the Roumanian Government about this surplus. No price has yet been discussed, and the answer to the last part of the Question is, "Certainly."
§ Mr. YorkIs the hon. Lady aware that a Mr. Pinnock from her Department was in Roumania on 15th September. Can she say whether he had any instructions to make investigations into anything except human food?
§ Dr. SummerskillCertainly. Mr. Pinnock was asked to make full investigations, and as we need maize very badly, he was asked to inquire about surpluses.
§ Dr. SummerskillThe hon. Member is not aware of the true facts. We are waiting for Roumania to tell us what commodities they require from this country, and on 26th October we made further representations, but we have still not heard from them.
§ Mr. YorkIs the hon. Lady aware that last week she gave me the information that the Ministry of Food were not aware of this surplus?