§ 52. Mr. Turtonasked the Minister of Food what quantities of lettuces were imported from abroad during the last six months; whether he is aware that English lettuce growers have been unable to market their product owing to these imports; and what steps he is taking to assist them.
§ Mr. StracheyIn the last six months 1,996 tons of lettuces have been imported as against 23,800 tons of lettuce produced at home. Moreover in August, September and October, during the home production season, home production was 22,500 tons as against imports of one ton. In November, December and January, when home production was low, namely, 1,300 tons, imports have been 1,995 tons. These imports of lettuce have in my opinion been too small, not too large, since they have not succeeded in reducing the price to the consumer below about 10d. each, which is a very stiff price for the average housewife. Both home produced and imported lettuce of good quality is selling steadily at these prices, which I hope will now begin to fall. I cannot consider any restrictions 360 on the further imports of lettuce at this time.
§ Mr. TurtonIs the Minister aware that in December, growers were being offered a price of only 4d. per dozen head for lettuce, and will he say whether, before he initiated his import policy, he had full consultation with the Ministry of Agriculture?
§ Mr. StracheyYes. These consultations, of course, go on all the time.
§ Mr. BramallDoes not the situation which has been revealed by the supplementary question of the hon. Member for Thirsk and Malton (Mr. Turton), show the necessity for the Government to take the question of wholesale distribution into consideration?
§ Mr. StracheyThat is another question but a most important one.