§ Mr. EDWARD KELLYasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Shipping Controller if he is aware that there are large quantities of potatoes in the North of Ireland which cannot be marketed owing to shipping facilities being refused to the Irish exporters; have any and, if so, what facilities been given to Dutch potato ex- 607W porters to reach the English market; and can he offer increased facilities to the Irish exporters?
Colonel WILSONSpecial measures are being taken to increase the tonnage in the United Kingdom coasting trade, and it is hoped that this action will relieve the position with regard to shipments from the North of Ireland. No special facilities have been given to Dutch exporters.
§ Mr. E. KELLYasked the Minister of Food whether potatoes are being imported from Holland to the British markets, although facilities are being denied to North of Ireland exporters to supply the market; if so, will he discontinue the facilities to Dutch exporters and recommend that additional facilities be given to Irish exporters; and is he aware that the granting of exceptional facilities to Dutch exporters has a very detrimental effect on the value of the £ sterling on the Continental exchanges?
Mr. ROBERTSPotatoes are being imported both from the North of Ireland and from Holland. I do not understand the hon. Member's statement that facilities are being denied to Irish exporters; and should be glad to hear of any specific cases which he may have in mind. No exceptional facilities are given by the Ministry to Dutch exporters.