HC Deb 09 November 1949 vol 469 c1218
52. Sir R. Ross

asked the Minister of Food what was the average price of maize when this country lent Eire a quantity of maize; and what was the corresponding price when this quantity was returned.

Dr. Summerskill

The average c.i.f. price of all maize imported in the last three months of 1948, during which this grain was lent was £32 19s. 5d. per ton. Repayment of the loan was made between 15th January and 6th May, 1949. The average c.i.f. prices of all maize imported into the United Kingdom in the first and second quarters of 1949 were £30 15s. 9d. and £19 18s. 5d., respectively.

Sir R. Ross

Was not the net excess of the amount paid by this country for maize lent to Eire a very considerable sum more than the amount paid by Eire for the maize which was repaid?

Dr. Summerskill

The Irish Republic bought the maize a little cheaply but this country did not lose anything either in money or in maize.