asked the Minister of Economic Warfare whether he is aware that the rice imports of several neutral countries have materially increased since the war; and whether he is satisfied that the surplus does not go through to Germany?

I assume that the hon. Member is referring to imports into neutral countries contiguous to the enemy. With one exception, imports of rice into such countries during the last four months of 1939 have tended to diminish, and are in any case less than in the corresponding months of 1938. With regard to the second part of the Question, such statistical information as is available shows that it is probable that exports of rice to Germany have now virtually ceased.

Does the first part of the answer apply to exports to Scandinavian countries?

Certainly.

Can the hon. Gentleman say whether this rice is used for any other than comestible purposes?

The rice in question did not get through to the enemy.

asked the Minister of Economic Warfare whether he can give particulars of the statistical evidence on the basis of which he arrived at the conclusion that the import of soya beans by neutral countries since the war has not been excessive?

The statistical evidence relating to the actual importation of soya beans into certain contiguous neutral countries was drawn from the official trade returns of those countries in so far as they have been published, supplemented by such information as reaches the Ministry of Economic Warfare from other quarters.

Can the Minister give us these figures either now or in the OFFICIAL REPORT?

I do not think it would be in the public interest to publish them.

Is the Minister aware that figures have been given in authoritative circles of an increase in soya bean imports of from 200 to 300 per cent. in some countries? If that is not true it ought to be denied.

I think I had better stick to the general principle of not giving figures which are compiled not only from statistical information but also from other sources which are open to my Department.

asked the Minister of Economic Warfare whether, in view of the great importance of soya beans in the German war economy, he will reconsider his decision not to ration the quantities imported by contiguous countries?

The hon. Member can rest assured that the position with regard to the importation of soya beans into certain contiguous neutral countries will be under constant review, and that appropriate measures will be taken if and when occasion arises.

Does that mean, in view of the facts cited, that no steps in that direct ion should be taken now?

That is so.