HC Deb 22 January 1918 vol 101 c781
59. General CROFT

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether any decision has been arrived at to safeguard the production of sugar in the British Empire after the War; and whether British producers will receive an undertaking that Empire-grown sugar will be given a preference over sugar from Germany and Austria at the conclusion of hostilities?

The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of TRADE (Sir A. Stanley)

I am not yet in a position to make a statement as to the policy of His Majesty's Government in regard to this matter.

General CROFT

Is not this a question which obviously requires a decision immediately, and is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the very great feeling that exists right through the British Empire on the subject, and that the Government have not yet stated whether or not British Empire sugar is going to have advantages over German or Austrian sugar after the War?

Sir A. STANLEY

I am fully aware of the importance of the matter, but I cannot give an answer to-day.

General CROFT

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is a year ago since I first asked the question?