HC Deb 06 December 1939 vol 355 c679W
Colonel Ponsonby

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty what are the proportions, respectively, of Empire and foreign leaf in the purchases of tobacco for the Navy; and whether, in view of the necessity of reducing purchases requiring payment in American dollars, he proposes to increase the purchases of leaf grown in the British Empire?

Mr. Shakespeare

The proportions of Empire and foreign leaf in the tobacco purchased for the Navy vary with the quantities of suitable descriptions offered when the annual purchases are made. As a general rule between 20 and 25 per cent. of the total quantity purchased is of Empire origin. The importance of making the greatest possible use of Empire tobacco is fully realised.