§ 18. Mr. F. Willeyasked the Minister of Food the total cost of the stocks of cereals upon the disposal of which, during 1953–54, he estimates making a loss of £19,500,000; and what percentage loss does this represent.
§ Major Lloyd GeorgeThe estimated loss of £19.5 million relates, in the main, to stocks as yet unsold, and it would be contrary to the public interest to disclose their cost.
§ Mr. WilleyHow would it be contrary to public interests? The Minister has disclosed what his loss is going to be. Would it not be comforting to the public to know what percentage loss it is?
§ Major Lloyd GeorgeThe hon. Gentleman knows as well as I do that it would not be in the public interest to disclose anything which might reveal what stocks are held.