§ Mr. DIXONasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture if he has considered the probability of a serious shortage of seed potatoes in the spring, and the advisability of prohibiting the sale of potatoes for consumption on a smaller riddle than If⅝inch until 14th April, 1917?
Captain BATHURSTasked what steps, if any, are being taken to prevent a serious shortage of seed potatoes next spring by the use by potato merchants of a 1¼inch instead of the usual 1⅝-inch riddle?
§ Mr. ACLANDThe action suggested has been fully considered, but the Board have come to the conclusion that until after the census of potatoe stocks now being taken has been completed any regulation would be premature. The proportion of tubers passing through the riddle of 1⅝-inch mesh is larger this year than usual on account of the unfavourable season, and many of these small tubers which are now being sold for food would be quite unsuited for seed purposes. It is the general practice of growers in England and Wales to retain for their own use such of their small potatoes as may be suitable for seed, and few growers are likely to risk the disposal of their whole crop of seed potatoes unless they have already arranged for an adequate supply from elsewhere. I think my hon. Friends really know that the question is far too complicated and difficult to be settled simply by prescribing the use of riddles with a certain size of mesh, but they can be assured that the position is being very carefully studied and watched.