HC Deb 28 June 1948 vol 452 c1827
42. Mr. Baldwin

asked the Minister of Food whether he is aware that an agreement has been entered into with Holland which, amongst other items, includes £200,000 worth of dehydrated vegetables; and on what grounds he considers that the importation of these dehydrated vegetables is necessary.

Mr. Strachey

As part of the general trade agreement with Holland, we undertook to permit private traders to import up to £200,000 worth of dehydrated vegetables. Whether this amount will be bought will depend on the demand by consumers in this country.

Mr. Baldwin

Is the Minister aware that there are six factories producing dehydrated vegetables in this country at the present time, that this is a new industry, and that, if this dumping of surpluses is allowed, this new industry will be knocked on the head?

Mr. Strachey

I could not agree that this is a case of dumping of surpluses.