HC Deb 15 December 1955 vol 547 cc1387-8
44. Mr. Willey

asked the President of the Board of Trade what restrictions are imposed on the import of dried grass.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

So far as restrictions imposed by my Department are concerned, dried grass of a kind regarded as hay may be imported from the sterling area, Western Europe and certain other countries under the open general licence. Imports from the dollar area and the other countries to which the open general licence does not apply are restricted for balance of payments reasons. Alfalfa meal, which is chopped dried esparto grass, is on world open general licence.

I would, however, draw the hon. Member's attention to the provisions of the Importation of Hay and Straw Order, 1955, made by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.

Mr. T. Williams

Can the right hon. Gentleman tell us exactly how much has been imported during the current year?

Mr. Thorneycroft

No, Sir, not without notice.