HC Deb 22 February 1955 vol 537 c1043
10. Mr. E. Fletcher

asked the President of the Board of Trade what discussions he had with the Prime Ministers of India and Ceylon during their recent visits to this country on the export duty on tea.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

None, Sir.

Mr. Fletcher

But does not the President of the Board of Trade realise that the people of this country are convinced that it is entirely the fault of the Government that the price of tea is so absurdly high, which is borne out by what the Prime Minister of Ceylon said? Does the Minister really mean that he did not take any opportunity of having discussions about this matter with either of those Prime Ministers during their recent visit?

Mr. Thorneycroft

With the hon. Gentleman, the wish is father to the thought in this matter. I do not think I can add to the full statements and answers given on this matter by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister and by my hon. Friend the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food.