Potatoes

Mr. Geraint Howells
asked the Secretary of State for Wales if he is satisfiedwith the state of the potato industry in Wales; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. John Morris
Notwithstanding increased costs of production and the lower yield of the 1975 crop due to the dry summer, cash returns to Welsh potato growers overall have been satisfactory; the reduction in yield being countered by increased prices.There is a serious shortfall in homegrown potato supplies for the domestic market and the Government are keeping the situation under continuous review.I refer the hon. Member to the reply given to my hon. Friend the Member for Newham, South (Mr. Spearing) on 26th January.—[Vol. 904, c.

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