asked the Minister of Food what is the estimated monetary loss of the bananas recently landed at Avonmouth which were unfit for consumption, and who bears this loss.

The financial loss will amount to about £38,000 and the liability for this will be determined in the light of the enquiries that are now being made in Jamaica.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the authorities in Jamaica have already denied any liability whatever for this loss, and they have put it down entirely to be paid by the British taxpayer?

It is quite possible that the authorities in Jamaica take that view.

Is the Minister trying to recoup his loss by the sale of nuts by auction?