§ 28. Commander Scott-Millerasked the President of the Board of Trade to state the total tonnage of imports of old ware potatoes since the beginning of 1956; and the duty per ton paid.
§ The Minister of State, Board of Trade (Mr. A. R. W. Low)In the first four months of this year 286,000 tons of main-crop potatoes were imported. Except for about 700 tons from the Irish Republic and Commonwealth sources, these imports were subject to duty at the rate of 1s. per cwt.
§ 29. Commander Scott-Millerasked the President of the Board of Trade to what extent licences have been granted for the importation of old ware potatoes to enter the country through the ports of Wisbech, Boston, and Kings Lynn, respectively; and whether such imports are complete, or what is the tonnage still to be imported.
§ Mr. LowThe licences in question are open individual licences valid until 30th June, 1956, and permit imports through any United Kingdom port. I cannot therefore say what further quantities, if any, may yet arrive at any particular port.
§ Commander Scott-MillerWill my right hon. Friend be good enough to consult the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food about the imports of potatoes to ensure that there is nothing which is against the interests of home growers?
§ Mr. LowMy Department is, of course, constantly in consultation with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. In addition, we can watch the Customs returns, and returns given us by licence holders, and we have made it known that we may revoke licences without notice at any time we desire to do so.
§ Mr. CallaghanIn view of the contradictory statements which have been published, can the Minister tell us whether the country is suffering from a shortage of potatoes or a glut of potatoes?
§ Captain DuncanWill my right hon. Friend make it clear that neither the Government nor British farmers are responsible for the quality of the imported potatoes?