HC Deb 30 October 1912 vol 43 cc432-3
35. Mr. LEACH

asked what number of bales of cotton were grown in India in the last year for which the Government has a record; and what precentage of such cotton was used in India?

Mr. HAROLD BAKER

The Indian cotton crop of the year 1911–12 is estimated at about four million bales. The Indian consumption of raw cotton in mills and hand-looms, excluding imported cotton, is estimated to amount to rather less than two million bales.

36. Mr. LEACH

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether he is aware of the opinion of the cotton spinners of the world that an increase in the production of cotton is an absolute necessity; and has he any official information showing that India, with its fertile soil, suitable climate, and skilled agriculturists, offers facilities for an increase in the raw material?

Mr. HAROLD BAKER

It is generally allowed that India has natural facilities for an increased production of cotton. But as it has equal faciltiies for increased production of other staples, the extent to which the cotton-growing area can be extended is not capable of exact computation. The hon. Member is referred to the answer given to a somewhat similar question asked by him on the 5th August.

37. Mr. LEACH

asked if, seeing that America is getting within measurable distance of the time when she will need all the cotton she can produce for her own mills and to clothe her own people, and seeing that we cannot expect during the present generation to see any really substantial extra contribution from the new cotton-growing districts of Africa towards meeting the present needs, and the annual increase of over two million spindles, the Government will consider the advisability of fostering the growth of cotton in India, which is capable of vastly increasing the amount of cotton output?

Mr. HAROLD BAKER

The Government of India are already engaged in fostering and improving cotton cultivation in India, and their efforts in this direction will not be relaxed. The hon. Member is probably aware that the Secretary of State received a deputation of cotton-spinners and manufacturers on this subject in July last. Their views and proposals are now receiving the careful attention of the Government of India.

Mr. CLYNES

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that after the last full supply of American cotton steps were taken to restrict the growth so as to keep up the price?

Mr. HAROLD BAKER

That does not arise out of this question, but I have no doubt it has been considered.

Mr. KEBTY-FLETCHER

Does it not prove that cotton is going?