56. Mr. De la Bèreasked the Minister of Food whether he is aware of the loss of food to the consumers during August and September this year as a result of the canners being unable to get adequate supplies of sugar for the canning of plums; whether steps will be taken to improve this position; and, in view of the potential world surplus of sugar, what steps are being taken to ensure supplies from non-dollar sources.
§ Mr. StracheyThe canning industry as a whole has had approximately the same quantity of sugar for canning plums as last year, when there was a record pack, and we cannot spare any more. We already buy all the sugar available from non-dollar sources; there is, unfortunately, no surplus whatever of non-dollar sugar.
Mr. De la BèreIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Worcestershire canners were prevented from making full use of the fruit available by the shortage of sugar? Surely this is wasting home produced fruit? May I draw attention to the fact that this is thoroughly unsatisfactory?
§ Major Legge-BourkeWill the right hon. Gentleman take steps to see that, when there is a shortage of sugar in the canning factories, he does not, as compensation, offer the canners an export licence for the soft fruit which has never been exported before?
§ Mr. StracheyPerhaps the hon. and gallant Member would put down a Question on that point.