Mr. K. JONESasked the Food Controller whether it has been decided that all tea can be imported by private traders without any restriction as to quantity or price; whether this applies to cargoes now on the seas or whether they will be given the option of free and unfettered entry or Government control; and whether he is evolving any scheme of interworking between free-imported teas and existing Government holdings?
Mr. ROBERTSPrivate traders may import tea without any restriction as to quantity or price. This applies to cargoes now on the seas, but the method of disposal of such imparts has not yet been decided. My Department in conjunction with a committee of private importers is settling a scheme of interworking between free-imported teas and existing Government holdings.