HC Deb 27 April 1950 vol 474 c1133
59. Surgeon Lieut.-Commander Bennett

asked the Minister of Agriculture what arrangements have been made for the importation of strawberries this coming summer; and how far these arrangements have been made with the agreement of the strawberry growers in the south of Hampshire.

Mr. T. Williams

I am sending the hon. Member a copy of the Press announcement of 12th February, 1950, about imports of fresh fruits and vegetables, from which he will see that if home supplies are sufficient, it is proposed to suspend from 1st June to 31st July, inclusive, the present open general licence for the importation of strawberries, and to limit imports during this period to a total of 2,500 tons. The arrangements were discussed with the National Farmers' Union but not with growers in particular areas.

Surgeon Lieut.-Commander Bennett

Is the Minister aware that growers have been in a state of great suspense concerning their fate? Will he indicate the results of this document to the Growers' Federation?

Mr. Williams

The Growers' Federation have already been made aware of it.

Mrs. Jean Mann

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the housewives of this country are tired of high prices and the protection of home growers? Will my right hon. Friend in the future protect housewives and see that they get plentiful supplies of soft fruit at cheap prices?