HC Deb 11 April 1940 vol 359 c732W
Mr. Rostron Duckworth

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he is now satisfied that the importation of non-essential articles of food has been reduced to the desired minimum; and whether he can state the directions in which improvement is still essential?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

An Order was made on 19th March prohibiting as from 28th March the import, except under licence, of foodstuffs not covered by previous Orders. Licences to import foodstuffs are granted on the recommendation of the Ministry of Food, so that all such imports can be limited as required by the interests of the country as a whole, particularly in accordance with the need for economy in shipping and foreign exchange. The permitted level of food imports is kept under constant review.