HC Deb 03 February 1965 vol 705 c1068
20. Mr. Prior

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is aware of the concern in the apple industry caused by the sudden importation of Canadian apples at a time when they will clash with higher quality British fruit coming out of cold storage; and what action he proposes to take to prevent this happening on further occasions.

Mr. Hoy

No, Sir. I have received no representations from the industry about imports of Canadian apples; nor am I aware that there has been any recent change in the general pattern of imports, which are regulated by quota arrangements. The second part of the Question does not, therefore, arise.

Mr. Scott-Hopkins

Will the hon. Gentleman give an assurance that he will make no changes in the existing arrangements for the importation of apples?

Mr. Hoy

I have no intention of doing so. That was not the Question.

Mr. Scott-Hopkins

Does the hon. Gentleman mean that he will not give an assurance that he will maintain quotas of apple imports? Will he be more specific?

Mr. Hoy

The hon. Gentleman has difficulty in understanding. I said that I had no intention of altering them.