§ 43. Sir W. Smithersasked the Minister of Food why the new potato import programme which was withdrawn has now been reinstated; and why the trade have been informed that the programme of conditions attaching to open individual licences may at any time be discontinued or suspended without warning, in view of the fact that the uncertainty thereby created makes it difficult for growers and merchants to carry on their business effectively.
§ Dr. SummerskillWe are allowing imports of new potatoes because they provide a welcome variety in the diet. It has always been a condition of open individual licences that they may be cancelled without warning and traders are reminded of this in case the home new crop is exceptionally early.
§ Sir W. SmithersIn view of the recent loss to the taxpayer in the potato speculation of £10 million, will the right hon. Lady ask her right hon. Friend to stop the State trading in potatoes? Will she also remind him of Kipling's saying:
A servant when he reigneth is confusion to the end.
§ Dr. SummerskillNo, Sir.