HC Deb 15 March 1962 vol 655 cc182-3W
81. Sir W. Bromley-Davenport

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether present stocks of potatoes in this country are sufficient to meet demand; and what steps he will take if a substantial deficiency appears likely.

Mr. Soames

Information I have just received on stocks of potatoes still on farms indicates that home supplies will not by themselves meet all requirements throughout the remainder of the season. My right hon. Friend, the President of the Board of Trade, is therefore announcing today that imports of main crop potatoes will now be admitted under open individual licence for as long as is necessary.