HC Deb 17 June 1953 vol 516 cc966-7
38. Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

asked the Minister of Food how much wheat has been purchased abroad by his Department and on private account since 1st May, when traders were allowed to import wheat.

Major Lloyd George

It would be contrary to the public interest to give this information.

Lieut-Colonel Lipton

Can the Minister say whether he has any information about the extent to which wheat is being bought on private account? If he has not that information, how does he decide how much wheat to buy on Government account?

Major Lloyd George

Control does not end until 29th August, and there is no need for traders to buy on private account if they do not wish to do so, because the Ministry will continue to supply them to their full requirements.