§ Mr. Bossomasked the Minister of Food how much tin was allowed to British canners for fruit and vegetables last year; how much is to be allowed for this year; how far the 1949 allocation was in excess of the needs; and how did that of 1950 compare with the amount which was requested.
§ Mr. WebbLast year's quantity was about 82,000 tons. We do not yet know how much tinplate there will be for all canning purposes this year, but it is estimated that there should be about 80,000 tons for the canning of fruit and vegetables. All last year's allocation was taken up and it can therefore be assumed that it was not in excess of the industry's needs. The figure of 80,000 tons which I have mentioned for 1950 is much below the quantity requested, but I am afraid it is all we can spare as supplies are just now.