§ Mr. Teddy Taylorasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will initiate discussions with the NFU and other interested bodies to consider the steps which might be taken to ensure that potatoes are available to the public at more reasonable prices and of improved quality.
§ Mr. BishopMy officials maintain regular contact with representatives of potato producers and other interests. Current supply difficulties arise from the hot, dry summer which reduced production by an estimated 2¼ million metric tons compared to last season. The Government lifted the normal ban on imports of potatoes on 1st September 1975 and imposed a ban on exports of ware potatoes with effect from 17th October 1975. The Potato Marketing Board has relaxed the riddle sizes which normally apply. These measures alleviate but can-170W not make good the shortfall in supplies available for consumption. Prices are, therefore, bound to reflect this shortfall until early potatoes are available in quantity. The Potato Marketing Board is ready to investigate compaints about the quality of home-produced potatoes.