HC Deb 23 May 1957 vol 570 c1365
4. Mr. Hurd

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he has set a timetable for the consideration of the applications received for increased import duties on potatoes and tomatoes in the summer months; and whether any changes can be made effective for the current season.

Mr. Walker-Smith

No, Sir. The time this will take depends upon the representations my right hon. Friend receives.

Mr. Hurd

That is a rather disappointing reply, especially in view of the fact, of which I now ask my hon. Friend if he is aware, that a very heavy flood of Canary tomatoes is now coming into this market, making the position for our tomato growers very difficult. Will my right hon. Friend give urgent consideration to this matter?

Mr. Walker-Smith

Yes, but I hope my hon. Friend does not find it disappointing that my reply should take into account the necessity for thoroughness and care in the examination of these applications and for providing a full opportunity to all interested parties to make known their views.

Mr. Emrys Hughes

Are Cyprus potatoes going to come in just at the time when the Ayrshire potatoes are on the market, and are the farmers to lose money, as the result of the actions of the Government?

Mr. Walker-Smith

That supplementary question goes a little wider than the Question on the Order Paper, but I will do my best to satisfy the hon. Gentleman's curiosity at an appropriate time.

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