§ 4. Mr. Shurmerasked the Minister of Food if he is aware that the imports of quick frozen vegetables into this country from Europe are insufficient to meet demands; and if he will consider increasing the quota for the 12 months commencing 1st July, 1953.
Dr. HillI understand that supplies are quite adequate, apart from quick frozen peas, of which the home production will start before July. An increase of the import quota would not be justified.
§ Mr. ShurmerIs the Parliamentary Secretary aware that, owing to the shortage of quick frozen vegetables, many thousands of families have gone short, or have had no fresh vegetables, as a result of the high prices owing to lack of rain in the growing areas? Is he also aware that quick frozen vegetables are not now a luxury and that they are supplied to hospitals, industrial canteens, schools and the catering trade in general, and that this has now become a great need owing to the differences in climate which we get at different periods of the year resulting in a shortage of fresh vegetables?
Dr. HillThe hon. Gentleman will realise that these import cuts were imposed for balance of payments reasons and that imports constitute under 15 per cent. of our total supplies. We hope that the increasing public demand will be met by an increase in home production.