79. Lieut.-Colonel GUINNESSasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture whether he is aware that the Cantley Sugar Factory has now been acquired by an English company, and is being equipped with the most up-to-date machinery in readiness to deal with this year's crop; and whether he will draw the attention of farmers throughout East Anglia to the importance of this new-industry, so that at least 10,000 acres may this spring be sown with beet?
Sir A. BOSCAWENThe Ministry have not received any information as to any change in the ownership or equipment, of the Cantley Sugar Factory. Perhaps my hon. and gallant Friend can supply me with the necessary information. With regard to the latter part of the question, the Ministry are anxious to encourage the growth of sugar beet, provided that they are satisfied that it can be successfully handled on commercial lines.
Lieut.-Colonel GUINNESSIf the information which I shall send to the right hon. Gentleman convinces him that this factory is the most up-to-date in Europe, will he take practical steps to draw the attention of the farmers of East Anglia to the very great opportunity which is offered to them?
Sir A. BOSCAWENThat would depend entirely on the nature of the information which my hon. Friend sends.
§ Sir H. CRAIKWould it not be possible to institute inquiries to ascertain?