HC Deb 25 November 1957 vol 578 cc793-4
23. Mr. Collins

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what reply he has made to the protest from the Fish Friers' Association regarding the increasing prices of fish and potatoes.

Mr. Amory

The Association has been informed that the recent price increases have been due to the scarcity of supplies arising from natural factors and that I do not consider that an inquiry would serve any useful purpose.

Mr. Collins

Is not the Minister aware that there are satisfactory crops of potatoes on the Continent, particularly of the size and quality most suitable to the chip friers? if the keeping quality of those potatoes is suspect, would he not consider having some brought over now and so averting trouble later on?

Mr. Amory

I think that in reply to another Question I have indicated the present state of my thoughts on this subject, but I do, once again, give the assurance that I realise that any undue delay would be very unfortunate, and I intend to see that there is none.

Sir J. Duncan

Would my right hon. Friend be able to give a statement next week on the potato situation?

Mr. Amory

I am not sure.