asked the Minister of Food what allocation of canned meat has been made to the trade during the period 17th August to 13th September and in subsequent periods; and in view of the present shortage of this commodity what steps are being taken to obtain supplies from Eire.

Allocations of imported canned meats to the trade, apart from canned corned meat, for the periods mentioned by the hon. Member were 3,000 tons for each period. Supplies are being obtained from Eire.

Is it not a fact that the Ministry of Food refused to renew a contract of 10,000 tons of canned Irish stewed steak last autumn?

That is indeed news. We have just made a contract with Eire for 5,000 tons.