§ 19. Mr. G. Jegerasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food whether he is aware that farmers are holding back stocks of potatoes in the hope of higher prices later; and whether he will take action to prevent further rises in prices to the consumer through accentuation of the shortage.
Mr. AmoryAs the main potato crop has to be marketed over the whole season up to June next, farmers must hold stocks at this time of the year. Because there is doubt as to whether present stocks will be adequate, imports of potatoes are being allowed. No other action is contemplated.
§ Mr. JegerWe are very glad that imports of potatoes are being allowed, but we are rather sorry that the Minister did not take such action earlier. Is he not aware that especially in the Doncaster area there has been considerable pilfering from potato clamps set up by farmers? Is he further aware that one farmer has said that he is selling his crop prematurely now to stop pilfering, rather than hold the potatoes until next year when he can get higher prices? Those were the farmer's words.
Mr. AmoryI am sorry about the pilfering, but I am afraid there is not very much I can do about that.