asked the Minister of Food whether he is aware of the Home Parcel Service operating from India by which food parcels are dispatched to the United Kingdom; and what steps he proposes to take to stop this loss of exchange.

Yes, Sir. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations is in communication with the Government of India on this matter.

Since this food is apparently available in the world, is there any reason why the Ministry of Food should not purchase these parcels and have them distributed fairly in this country, and do away with this parcels racket that is going on?

Perhaps the hon. Gentleman will put that question down.