HC Deb 17 May 1950 vol 475 c1215
63. Mr. Donner

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies to what extent the West Indian Dependencies are restricted from buying Canadian bacon.

The Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. James Griffiths)

Imports of Canadian bacon into the West Indies are restricted by import licensing to the amounts necessary in the light of the territories requirements, the supply position of this commodity and the need to save dollars.

Mr. Donner

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that while the United Kingdom imports quantities of bacon from Canada, the West Indies are restricted from buying pig products, which are the staple food of the working classes? Will he take some steps to remedy the situation?

Mr. Griffiths

I do not think the position is as the hon. Member states, but if he has any details I will look into them.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

Is not this rather absurd situation further evidence of the crying need for an Imperial economic conference?

Mr. Griffiths

I think that the Governments and peoples of the Colonial territories are fully seized, as we are, of the importance to conserve dollar imports.

Sir Peter Bennett

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Canadians are very disturbed about interference with their trade with the West Indies, and quote it to us when we do business with them?

Mr. Griffiths

I have no information about that.