39. Major Lloydasked the Minister of Food whether he is aware of the sudden price collapse for early potatoes grown in this country, because of which many growers have been forced to sell early potatoes below cost of production; and why, under these circumstances, permission was recently given to import 1,000 tone of Spanish potatoes which arrived during the first week-end of June.
Dr. HillMy right hon. and gallant Friend is aware that the markets were over-supplied with potatoes in early June, with a temporary collapse in price. The closing date for the open general licence was 31st May. I am inquiring into the particular case to which my hon. Friend refers.