HC Deb 10 May 1948 vol 450 c1727
41. Colonel Gomme-Duncan

asked the Minister of Food if he is now in a position to reconsider the down-pointing of oatmeal in view of the large stocks now held by millers in Scotland and the consequent deterioration of the cereal.

Mr. Strachey

I am giving this matter careful consideration, but according to my information the stocks of oatmeal held by millers are not unduly large.

Colonel Gomme-Duncan

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is a considerable number—I will not go as far as to say that there is a large number—of millers in Scotland who are hopelessly overstocked with oatmeal, and that the wholesalers will not take it because they have not got the points?

Mr. Strachey

We know within a very small amount the total stocks. They amount to a very few weeks supply. Whether it is possible to make some imported oats available to millers, which would probably be necessary if this change were made, is another matter which we are considering.

Mr. E. P. Smith

Will the Minister undertake that the down-pointing of processed barley shall march hand in hand with the down-pointing of oatmeal?

Mr. Strachey

That is a very desirable objective.