asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he will reconsider the present ban on licences for canned fruit and vegetables from Canada, in view of the importation of such foodstuffs from Australia; and whether he is aware that it is computed that all stocks of Canadian tinned goods for sale will need immediate replenishing by the end of May?

The Ministry of Food has become the sole purchaser of canned fruit and vegetables from abroad, and in future licences to import will not normally be issued to private importers. As regards the purchases of canned fruit and vegetables to be made from Canada, it is of the utmost importance to conserve our supplies of Canadian currency for essential war purposes and canned fruit and vegetables cannot be given a high place on the priority list of imports from Canada. As regards the stocks of Canadian canned goods, I am aware that they are being reduced.

Are fresh imports of Canadian canned goods to be expected in future?

I am afraid I cannot add to my answer.

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he is aware that Canadian troops in this country have been unable to procure tinned corn; and whether he will arrange for a suitable supply of this Canadian foodstuff, as the Navy, Army, and Air Force Institutes cannot get an adequate supply of these and similar commodities?

The question of importing a supply of canned corn for sale by the Navy, Army and Air Force Institutes is under consideration, and I will let the hon. Member know as soon as possible the decision that is reached.