HC Deb 24 November 1947 vol 444 cc245-6W
87. Lieut.-Commander Clark Hutchison

asked the Minister of Food whether it is his intention to cut down imports of bacon from Canada.

Dr. Summerskill

Our future bacon imports from Canada are at present under discussion. An announcement will be made as soon as possible.

93. Mr. Turton

asked the Minister of Food why permits have been granted for 7,515 cwts. of bacon and ham to be exported, and for 9,129 cwts. to be re-exported during the first nine months of this year; to what countries were these exports and re-exports made; and whether he will refuse to allow any more bacon or ham to be sent from this country until the cut in the bacon ration is restored.

Dr. Summerskill

The export or re-export of approximately 19,000 cwts. of bacon and ham has been permitted to meet the requirements of the Channel Isles, Malta and Gibraltar during 1947, but apart from certain quantities shipped by N.A.A.F.I. for the Services overseas, no other bacon has been exported or re-exported. These limited supplies are delivered under agreements which run to the end of 1947.

99. Dr. S. Jeger

asked the Minister of Food whether he will give the saving in dollars over any convenient period arising from the recent cut in the bacon ration.

Dr. Summerskill

There have been no dollar savings as yet, but as my hon. Friend will be aware, a United Kingdom Mission is at present in North America. It would not be opportune to anticipate the result of their discussions.