§ 43. Mr. C. S. Taylorasked the Minister of Food how much cheese he is buying from the U.S.A.; and whether he is satisfied that supplies of cheese cannot be obtained from the Dominions or other Empire sources.
§ Mr. StracheyWe are buying every ton of cheese we can from Commonwealth or other soft currency sources. We shall only buy from the United States of America what additional quantities are necessary to meet our minimum needs.
§ Mr. TaylorMay I have an answer to the first part of the Question, as to how much cheese the Minister is buying from the U.S.A. at present?
§ Mr. StracheyNo, Sir, because that is not yet determined.
§ Mr. KeelingIf this cheese is imported cheddar, will the Minister endeavour to mature it before putting it on the market so that it may be suitable for the human palate and not only for mouse-traps?
§ Mr. StracheyWe will bear that in mind. I have some sympathy with that suggestion.
§ Captain MarsdenIn view of the fact that the Minister says we are likely to import cheese from the United States, will he prohibit the exportation of any of our cheese to the United States?
§ Mr. StracheyI will consider that.