HC Deb 05 July 1948 vol 453 c16
31. Mr. E. P. Smith

asked the Minister of Food if he is aware that all British plants for the manufacture of lentils are standing idle; and what prospects there are of getting supplies of raw material in the near future.

Mr. Strachey

Until India resumes exports I am afraid there is little prospect of obtaining sufficient lentils to keep our plants working fully. We have recently purchased 1, 000 tons of Syrian lentils from the 1948 crop for June-August shipment and these will be allocated to manufacturers when they arrive.