HC Deb 05 July 1917 vol 95 c1263
63. Mr. SCANLAN

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether in view of the inconvenience which is being caused to merchants and to the public in Ireland by the restricted allowance of sugar and the inequality in its distribution, the Government can see their way to at once appoint a sugar controller for Ireland or to establish in Ireland a separate branch of the Sugar Commission, or take other steps in order to redress the existing grievances?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of LABOUR (Mr. Bridgeman)

I have been asked to reply. The question of improving the distribution of sugar throughout the United Kingdom is now under consideration, and I hope to announce at an early date the measures which will be taken with this object.

Mr. SCANLAN

Arising out of the somewhat unsatisfactory reply, may I ask if the hon. Gentleman is aware that some time ago a promise was made from the Treasury Bench that a separate Sugar Commission would be set up in Ireland?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

I am afraid I cannot answer that.

Mr. HOGGE

Is there any sugar in the country now to distribute?

An HON. MEMBER

Of course there is, to the brewers.

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