HC Deb 29 January 1947 vol 432 cc196-7W
67. Mr. Butcher

asked the Minister of Food if he is satisfied that the supplies of potatoes now available are adequate to meet the needs of this country and of shipments to Germany until the new crop is harvested; and whether he proposes to institute a rationing scheme for potatoes.

Mr. Strachey

I am expecting the results of the January stock census shortly, which should enable me to judge the position. There are large supplies but consumption is also largely increased. No potatoes have been or will be sent to Germany this season. I do not propose to ration potatoes.

68. Mr. Butcher

asked the Minister of Food whether in view of the infection during recent years of the Channel Islands potato crop by Colorado beetle, it is proposed to ship potatoes from this area to the mainland during the coming season.

Mr. Strachey

Representatives of the Jersey growers are now in London discussing the matter with us.