§ 52. Mr. BARNESasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the statement 666 by the Chancellor of the Exchequer that he is unable to consider a reduction of the duties on sugar because, in his opinion, the benefit of any such reduction would not find its way to the consumer, he will appoint a Select Committee of this House to inquire into and report upon the cause of the present high Price of sugar and upon the reasons for the failure of British Home-Grown Sugar, Limited, in which large sums of State funds are invested, to develop on practical lines the production of sugar in this country?
§ Mr. BALDWINI understand that the difficulties which British Home-Grown Sugar, Limited, had to face were due in the main to the fact that the industry (which is one that requires, in an exceptional degree, highly-skilled technical management) was in its infancy in this country. There is every reason to hope that the reconstruction of the company, which has recently been effected, and the steps which are now being taken to improve the plant at the Kelham sugar beet factory will result in the establishment of the industry on a firm foundation. I do not think, therefore, that the inquiry suggested by the hon. Member would serve any useful purpose.
§ Captain BERKELEYIn view of the right hon. Gentleman's statement the other day that the ring in America prevented him reducing the duty on sugar, will the Government consider the possibility of taking steps to increase Empire production?
§ Mr. SPEAKERWe are going to debate that in the House later on.