§ Sir J. D. REESasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether a scheme for the better distribution of tea to the public has been received by him from the tea trade; and, if so, whether he can make any statement as to the disposal of such scheme?
§ Mr. CLYNESThe answer to the first part of the hon. Member's question is in the negative. The second part, therefore, does not arise.
§ Sir A. YEOasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether, as the small amount of China tea remaining is practically all fine tea, he will say why it is put on a par with the lowest-priced tea when it cannot be replaced; whether he will consider the desirability of protecting those who cannot drink any other kind of tea; and whether he will explain why it is proposed to entail loss upon men who have devoted all their lives to give this beverage their earnest attention?
§ Mr. CLYNESAn appreciable quantity of the China tea remaining is not fine tea and it is not desirable for it to be sold above the price allowed. There are still supplies of China tea which can be purchased by retail by persons unable to drink any other kind of tea. The question of the disposal of such fine China tea as remains in the United Kingdom is at present under consideration.