HC Deb 26 March 1953 vol 513 cc825-6
33. Sir L. Ropner

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will prohibit the import of carrots during the next main crop season.

60. Brigadier Medlicott

asked the President of the Board of Trade if, in view of the productive capacity of the home growers, he will prohibit the importation of carrots this year or at least during the period when the main home crop is available.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

As announced on 27th January, the import of carrots will be prohibited from 1st June to 31st July. Representations have been received from the National Farmers' Union that imports of maincrop carrots should also be prohibited. On the evidence so far submitted, my right hon. Friends the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries and the Minister of Food and I are not satisfied that a case for such prohibition has been established. We propose, however, to give further consideration to the question before the next maincrop becomes available, and any further evidence which the National Farmers' Union submit will be taken into account.

Colonel Gomme-Duncan

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind that he should consult the Secretary of State for Scotland on this matter as well, because the cropping season there is not quite the same as the dates which he has stated?

Mr. Thorneycroft

I will certainly do that.

Mr. Renton

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the home grower is capable of satisfying fully the needs of the home market, and will he ensure that the home grower is given first place in that market?

Mr. Thorneycroft

I believe that the home grower is competitive so far as price is concerned and, I am sure, quality, and in those circumstances I hope that the fears expressed will not be justified.