HC Deb 03 July 1939 vol 349 cc940-1W
Captain Plugge

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has considered that the possible result of the non-aggression pact between Germany and Denmark would be the cutting off of our bacon supplies in time of war; and whether immediate and increased steps will be taken to make us more independent of Danish imported supplies?

Mr. Cross

I do not consider that the non-aggression pact recently signed between Germany and Denmark would necessarily have the consequences suggested by the hon. Member, but I understand that the Food (Defence Plans) Department are actively considering the means of making good any deficiencies in imported bacon supplies in time of war. The hon. Member will also be aware that the Bacon Industry Acts 1938 and 1939, provides for a steadily increasing production of bacon in this country and that there has been a substantial increase in such supplies in recent years, as well as a marked rise in the volume of imports of bacon from Canada.