§ 90. Sir D. Thomsonasked the Minister of Food what quantity of Malayan pineapples were available for canning during the first half of 1946; whether it was on account of cost that these pineapples were refused by his Department; whether he is aware that the tin plate necessary for canning was not sent from the United Kingdom owing to the fact that the pineapples were not bought for consumption in the United Kingdom; and that considerable quantities of pineapples were accordingly allowed to rot.
§ Dr. SummerskillMy right hon. Friend is informed that some 300 tons of pineapples were available for canning in the first half of this year Proposals for the purchase of canned pineapples were iniated in January, but no offer was received and the question of refusing supplies on account of the cost did not arise. Some tin plate was sent to Malaya which was sufficient for immediate requirements. My right hon. Friend has no information regarding the last part of the Question.