63. Mr. Scott-Elliotasked the Minister of Food whether he is aware that there is a grave shortage of onions all over the country; and what steps are being taken to remedy this.
§ Mr. StracheyWeather conditions last year caused poor onion crops both at home and on the Continent; consequently supplies have been much less than usual. In April, however, we shall begin to receive supplies from Egypt. Onions are imported on private account and licences have been granted to import them from all possible sources.
Mr. Scott-ElliotCould my right hon. Friend do a bit more about this? Could not he ask his right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture to ensure that more onions are grown in this country?
§ Mr. StracheyThat is primarily a question for the Minister of Agriculture, but I think he is doing everything possible.
§ Mrs. Jean MannDoes the right hon. Gentleman know that there is no shortage 1244 of onions in the black market in Glasgow, that the stances are well known to all Glasgow women, to the police and to his enforcement officers, and that licences are still being continued year after year?
§ Mr. StracheyIf my hon. Friend has information on that point I shall be very grateful if she will pass it on to me.
§ Mr. McKinlayIs my right hon. Friend aware that it has been the deliberate purpose of the Ministry since 1941, irrespective of the number of offences by barrow traders, to renew their licences in spite of recommendations from food control committees.
§ Mr. StracheyNo, Sir.