§ 22. Mr. Remnantasked the Minister of Food what types and quantities of fresh fruit are included in his recent purchase of butter and other foods from the United States of America.
§ Mr. RemnantWhat are the exchange conditions? Has American dollar exchange to be made available or are these commodities being furnished under the M.S.A.?
Dr. HillAs has been previously stated, they are being purchased for sterling, that amount being set against defence expenditure.
§ Lieut.-Colonel LiptonHas the hon. Gentleman made any inquiries about the age of this American butter which he is now purchasing, because it has been offered to him for a year or two now, without any action being taken, except last week?
Dr. HillI can assure the hon. and gallant Member that no butter will be admitted to this country unless it is fresh and up to the statutory requirements in force here.
§ Mr. RemnantCan my hon. Friend say what quantities are being purchased for him?
Dr. HillThe programme quantities include fresh oranges to the value of 1½ million dollars and fresh grapefruit to the value of ½ million dollars.