§ 55. Sir G. Foxasked the Minister of Food for what reason it has been decided to import apples from the United States of America to the value of £1,428,000; and what steps were taken by his Department to consult with those 33W responsible for the production, distribution and storage of the British apple crop as to the possibilities of ensuring that the apple requirements of the British public during the next few months should be met to the maximum possible extent from home sources.
§ Dr. Summerskill:We have agreed to take some apples at a reduced price as part of the arrangement, bound up with the financing by E.C.A. of our Canadian wheat and flour purchases, whereby we shall be buying some agricultural surplus commodities from the U.S.A. This fruit will prove a useful addition to our supplies in the New Year and, as it will in no way interfere with the marketing of the home crop, no consultation with home interests will be necessary.