HC Deb 22 January 1948 vol 446 cc350-1
7. Mrs. Ayrton Gould

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether the import of tobacco from America has been completely stopped; and when a further consignment is expected in this country.

Mr. H. Wilson

No purchases of tobacco from the United States have taken place since the end of October, but tobacco bought before then is still arriving and will continue to arrive for some time. I am not in a position to say when any further purchases are likely to be allowed.

Mrs. Ayrton Gould

Are we not to have any further contracts so long as the dollar position is difficult?

Mr. Wilson

I do not think I have much to add to what has been previously said. We have stopped purchases of tobacco in the United States. No decision has been taken on the date when they will be resumed, and I am not in a position to say when that decision will be taken.