HC Deb 10 November 1952 vol 507 cc592-3
55. Mr. Willey

asked the Minister of Food what effect the fall of 40 per cent. in the value of imports of feedingstuffs for animals for the period January-September this year compared with last year will have on the level of feedingstuffs distribution.

Dr. Hill

None, Sir.

Mr. Willey

Does the hon. Gentleman agree that this presents a serious position; that we have this serious shortfall of Russian contracts which, in conjunction with the shortfall in the present year's receipts, means that farmers are going to be in for a very rough time?

Dr. Hill

There is no such shortfall. The 5½ million ton ration pool will be maintained. What has happened is that there was a substantial purchase of processed foods in the latter part of last year, so lowering the amount purchased in the early part of this year. Furthermore, there was an increased import of coarse grains.

Mr. Willey

Does the hon. Gentleman mean that again we are living on stocks?

Dr. Hill

No, Sir. Stocks are higher than they were a year ago.