§ Mr. Jannerasked the President of the Board of Trade how long he anticipates the present supply of Virginia tobacco will last; and what are his plans for importing tobacco when this stock is exhausted.
§ Mr. H. WilsonIt is not possible to consider Virginia tobacco in isolation in this context. Total stocks of unmanufactured tobacco of all types are equivalent to approximately 15 months' usage at the present rate of consumption. As regards the second part of the Question, United Kingdom manufacturers will, I am satisfied, continue to purchase from sources where currency difficulties do not arise all the available tobacco which is suitable in quality and price. Such purchases will not represent the continuance of anything like the present level of supply, and my hon. Friend will I hope agree that I cannot at this stage prejudge developments.