§ Mr. LOUGHasked the Prime Minister whether he could so use his influence with regard to the length of time that speakers from the Front Benches would occupy in the Debate on Foreign Affairs on Thursday next that reasonable time might be allowed for discussing the Amendment dealing with the Brussels Sugar Convention without unduly curtailing the facilities desired by Members to raise other questions; and, if not, whether he would give another opportunity for raising this specific question in such a manner that the House might express its opinion upon it?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI gather that there are many Members wishing to take part in the general Debate, and, of course, I cannot interfere with their freedom in any way. So far as this bench is concerned, the speeches will be few and short, and I hope that my right hon. Friend may get the opportunity he seeks.
§ Mr. LOUGHIf the Debate on the general question is extended, will the right hon. Gentleman find another opportunity for this very important subject to be discussed?
§ The PRIME MINISTERPerhaps my right hon. Friend would wait until next Session.
§ The PRIME MINISTERThere will be a very full opportunity in the Debate on the Address.
§ Mr. LOUGHWhat view would the right hon. Gentleman take about the 2138 Division in the Debate on the Address? The Division is the important part.
§ The PRIME MINISTERI am afraid I cannot deal with that question until the occasion arises.
§ Mr. CHARLES DUNCANHas the right hon. Gentleman any guarantee that the speeches from the Back Benches will be equally short?
§ The PRIME MINISTERNo, I am sorry I have not.
§ Mr. LOUGHasked whether a meeting of the Brussels Sugar Convention was held as arranged last Friday; if so, whether permission was given to Russia to export an additional 500,000 tons of sugar westwards; whether any conditions were attached to the concession; whether the export of this sugar can take place immediately, or if it will be necessary for the decision to be ratified by the Governments of the respective countries who are parties to the Convention; and, if so, what delay such ratification may involve?
§ Sir E. GREYWith regard to the first part of the question, a meeting of the International Sugar Commission was held on Friday last. I cannot yet give any answer to the remainder of the question, as the meetings are still in progress, and no decision has yet been arrived at.
§ Mr. LOUGHCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether the notice which appeared in "The Times" yesterday was an accurate account of what is going on, and what his attitude would be towards the proposal to make the price of sugar 15s. per cwt.?
§ Sir E. GREYI have not heard of the proposal. If my hon. Friend would give me notice, I will make inquiry.