§ Mr. J. GARDINERasked the Food Controller if he will state the quantities of unconsumed surplus potatoes of the 1918 crop claimed for by growers against the Ministry of Food as at 30th June, 1919, in England and Wales, Scotland, and Ireland, respectively; the respective cash amounts represented by such claims; the respective actual cash losses to the Ministry of Food by such claims; and the cost of administration of the control of the 1918potato crop in England and Wales, Scotland, and Ireland, respectively?
§ Mr. MCCURDYOn the 30th June, 1919, the potato crop for 1918 had been entirely cleared in Ireland and Wales. The surplus in England on that date was 20,000 tons and in Scotland 51,000 tons; these potatoes have now been disposed of, with the exception of a small surplus. A proportion of the loss on the potato crop will fall to be borne by foreign Governments, and it is impossible to furnish a financial statement at present.