HC Deb 15 October 1952 vol 505 c18W
56. Mr. Willey

asked the Minister of Food what arrangements he has made for the supply of grain from the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics.

Dr. Hill

A further contract has recently been signed. This provides for the delivery of 200,000 tons of grain consisting of 150,000 tons of barley, 30,000 tons of oats and 20,000 tons of maize. Shipments under the new contract are to commence immediately.

Sir H. Williams

asked the Minister of Food why the maize imported in the first eight months of this year from the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics has averaged in price about 15 per cent. more than maize imported from the United States of America.

Major Lloyd George

Because of the scarcity of dollars in many countries non-dollar coarse grains entering international trade frequently command a premium over dollar grains.