Hydrogenated Cod Liver Oil

HC Deb 25 June 1953 vol 516 cc154-5W

Mr. Braine

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware of the increase in imports of high-priced hardened cod liver oil; and what steps he proposes to take.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

Yes. My attention has been drawn to the very large increase in expenditure on imports of cod liver oil in recent months. I am advised that this increase is due to a large extent to the expanding use of cod liver oil in hardened form as a substitute for cooking fats. I have accordingly amended the open general licence with effect from 23rd June to exclude hydrogenated cod liver oil; and I am issuing import licences to cover contracts only where irrevocable credits have been opened.