§ 43. Mr. Collinsasked the Minister of Food what is the average annual wastage of potatoes due to deterioration in store in the years 1941–45, expressed in terms of tonnage or as a percentage of the total crop, and in the year 1947–48.
§ Dr. SummerskillWe estimate wastage in clamps and other stores on farms at 8.3 per cent. of the crop in 1941–45 and 5.9 per cent. in 1947–48.
§ Mr. CollinsIs my hon. Friend aware that these figures are supporting evidence 940 for the view held by farmers and distributors that the wastage in the last season was less than at any time within living memory?
§ Dr. SummerskillYes, Sir, and I think this is the answer to those hon. Members who have alleged that my Department has not conducted its affairs on businesslike lines.