HC Deb 29 November 1948 vol 458 cc1626-7
60. Mr. Renton

asked the Minister of Food whether he is aware that there are more than sufficient onions in this country to satisfy the demand until after 31st December; and whether he will extend the prohibition of imports until after that date.

Mr. Strachey

I have no accurate information of the amount of home-grown onions in good condition still unsold, but such information as I have indicates that the quantity is insufficient to cover our needs to the end of the year. In any case it is not the policy of the Government to restrict imports of onions more than is necessary to avoid glut conditions in the United Kingdom markets and it would be inconsistent with the agreements we have with other Governments to extend the present prohibition as the hon. Member suggests. By far the best way of disposing of the onions would be by means of a reduction of price to the consumer.

Mr. Renton

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the vast majority of farmers find that onions are already to a great extent difficult to sell because of foreign imports? Is he aware that his decision to restrict imports until 15th December was ineffective because it was made too late to prevent the import of onions, and will he please reconsider the whole position in the interest of home growers and consumers?

Mr. Strachey

I cannot agree that the decision was ineffective. A very considerable amount of onions had to be held back by the countries which otherwise would have exported them. I repeat that the only possible solution is the reduction of the retail price to the consumer.

Mrs. Jean Mann

Will my right hon. Friend recollect the experience in August when vested interests were considered and the import of tomatoes restricted, and the prices went up 100 per cent? Will he remember that the housewife is of paramount importance and has a vested interest which should come first?

Mr. Strachey

I am very well aware of that and will give it consideration.

Major Legge-Bourke

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that his original reply to the hon. Member for Huntingdon (Mr. Renton) is calamitous to the areas where onions are grown? Will he bear in mind that these onions have been grown as a result of appeals made by himself and by the Minister of Agriculture to produce more food?