HC Deb 19 April 1950 vol 474 cc138-9
56. Mr. David Renton

asked the Minister of Food how many tons of apples were imported by his Department during the 12 months ended 31st March, 1950; what was the total sterling cost c.i.f.; how much non-sterling currency was used; what were the costs of distribution in the United Kingdom; what total sum was received by his Department from the sale of the apples in the United Kingdom; and what percentage of the apples so imported were wasted.

Mr. Webb

I gave the hon. Member on 3rd April these details for the whole of 1949, but I fear that it will be a little time before I can supply full details for the first three months of this year.

Mr. Renton

Is it not a fact that the right hon. Gentleman's predecessor, in the first three months of this year, dumped more foreign apples in this country than any other man in our history in a similar period, and that he did so without benefit to the home consumer and with detriment to the home producer? Will the right hon. Gentleman see that no such thing occurs in future?

Mr. Webb

It may or not be the fact. I would rather await the actual facts, which will be available in about three weeks' time. Then we shall know exactly.

Mrs. Castle

Is it not the fact that the bulk of these imported apples are eating apples, of which there has been a dearth in the home market? Will my right hon. Friend continue to do all he can to meet the real needs of the housewives of this country?

Mr. Webb

Yes, Sir.

Brigadier Prior-Palmer

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that apples imported from Italy are of the most inferior type possible, because that land will not grow good apples? Will he cease to import these apples to the detriment of our own horticulturists?

57. Mr. D. Renton

asked the Minister of Food how many tons of pears were imported by his Department during the three months ended 31st March, 1950; what was the total sterling cost c.i.f; how much non-sterling currency was used; what were the costs of distribution in the United Kingdom; what total sum was received by his Department from the sale of pears in the United Kingdom; and what percentage of the pears so imported were wasted.

Mr. Webb

My Department has never at any time imported pears. The remaining parts of the Question do not. therefore, arise.