HC Deb 09 March 1953 vol 512 c824
20. Dr. Stross

asked the Minister of Food whether he will be able to increase the cheese ration during this year.

Major Lloyd George

It is too early to say.

Dr. Stross

Would it not, however, be helpful if the Minister could give an assurance to New Zealand in connection with their request that we should take up all their dairy produce for the next 15 years? If he could do that, it would help.

Major Lloyd George

As a matter of fact, under the existing agreement with New Zealand we do undertake to take all the exportable surplus of their dairy products, with the exception of certain specified exports to other countries.

Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

In view of the fact that liquid milk sales to the public have declined considerably, what will happen to the millions of gallons of milk not now being sold? Cannot they be transferred to the manufacture of cheese?

Major Lloyd George

We are making more cheese than we did last year.

Mr. Willey

Has the right hon. and gallant Gentleman considered giving a reply to the Prime Minister of New Zealand in connection with his complaint about the lack of assurances on the part of the Government?

Major Lloyd George

There is a Question later on about that.