asked the Minister of Food why he fixed a price of £39 5s. 6d. per ton f.o.b. Singapore for this year's crop of illipenuts; and how much was purchased at this price.

This price was recommended by our local agents as likely to encourage the maximum collection of nuts. Our purchases amounted to 8,356 tons.

As there is considerable evidence of a higher price and a much larger quantity, will the hon. Lady make sure that a higher price is paid next year?

We are increasing it by £2 next year.

Will the hon. Lady say whether these are animal, vegetable or mineral?

Vegetable.