§ 78. Mr. FIELDasked the President of the Board of Agriculture what encouragement, if any, has been given to promote the growth and manufacture of sugar beet in England; whether he is aware that the by-products and leaves contribute valuable food fur cattle, and that in France it is utilised to aid the production of cement; and whether he is aware that many millions per annum are paid to foreign producers and manufacturers for this food commodity, which could be largely produced in the three Kingdoms?
§ The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Prothero)In reply to this quesion, I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer given to a question the same subject by the hon. Member for the West Toxteth Division of Liverpool on the 29th inst. With regard to cement, I understand that sugar factories use large quantities if lime for neutralising and clarifying the juice of sugar beet, and that the waste lime is sometimes used in the manufacture of cement. I hope that it may be possible after the War to build up a sugar beet industry in this country, which, apart from other considerations, would be of great value to agriculture.
§ Sir C. BATHURSTCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether sugar beet seed can be obtained by those who desire to grow the root in their gardens for culinary purposes in place of sugar?
§ Mr. PROTHEROI will endeavour to give my hon. and gallant Friend the information he requires.