§ 62. Mr. Hurdasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what is the latest estimate he has made of the quantity of potatoes of the 1956 crop which will be surplus to human requirements; if there is likely to be an export market for any considerable quantity; and whether the Potato Marketing Board consults with his Department about the disposal of surplus potatoes for stockfeed and manufacturing purposes, so as to keep down the charge falling on the Exchequer.
Mr. AmoryThe Potato Marketing Board's census of potato stocks in Great Britain on 1st January suggests that there will be a surplus over human requirements of more than half a million tons. Export possibilities are not substantial in relation to this quantity but are being actively explored. The Board is in close and continuous touch with my Department regarding disposal of the surplus.
§ Mr. HurdIs my right hon. Friend ensuring that potatoes—not only for human consumption—will be used in the most economical way possible for stock-feeding, so as to save some of our import bill on feeding stuffs?