§ 14. Mr. JesselTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what estimate he has made of the rate of growth and consumption of Indian cuisine since 1976. [11279]
§ Mrs. BrowningIndian cuisine is very popular. I know my hon. Friend has played no small part in promoting 1118 both Indian cuisine and Anglo-Indian relations. Although I have no separate comparison for Indian restaurants, statistics available from the 1995 Curry Club user survey suggest that, since 1991, the number of curry restaurants has increased by around 12 per cent., accounting for 6 per cent. of the entire United Kingdom restaurant and take-away trade.
§ Mr. JesselIs my hon. Friend aware that thousands of Indian restaurants give tremendous pleasure to millions of British people all over the United Kingdom with their highly spiced foods, which buttress the terrific relations between Britain and India? Those relations were further promoted by the Prime Minister's visit to India for Republic day two years ago as guest of honour of the Republic of India.
§ Mrs. BrowningI am sure that the House recognises how absolutely delicious Indian cuisine is. I know that many hon. Members spend their money in Indian restaurants, which accounts for the increase in trade in that sector. My hon. Friend is right to draw attention to the issue.