HC Deb 22 November 1955 vol 546 cc1257-8
44. Mr. Collins

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that although main-crop potatoes can only be imported from Holland under licence, considerable quantities of potatoes have recently been imported without a licence; and if he will issue licences for the import of main-crop potatoes to make up for deficiences in home supplies.

Mr. Low

I cannot at present add anything to the reply given to the hon. Member for Acton (Mr. Sparks) on 17th November by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.

Mr. Collins

Is the Minister aware that these potatoes can only have been imported under the guise of new potatoes? Has this practice been stopped? Is he further aware that there are fears of an acute shortage of potatoes arising later, and will he discuss with his right hon. Friend the means, in time, of preventing it?

Mr. Low

I was aware of all those points, and my right hon. Friend dealt with them in his answer.

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