§ 36. Colonel BURTONasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that the Wessex Flax Factories, Limited, now in liquidation, owe a considerable sum of money to the flax growers of this country; whether he is in a position to state if any of the assets have been realised and, if so, the amount so realised; whether there is any possibility of a distribution of such assets; and, if so, can any date for such distribution be indicated?
§ Major HENNESSY (for Mr. Edward Wood)The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The realisation of the assets of the company is practically completed, and a sum of about £4,000 will be available so far as the Ministry is concerned. In view of the losses sustained by the growers the Ministry has decided to forgo this sum and to distribute it pro rata among the growers. Instructions are being given to the Receiver accordingly, and my right hon. Friend hopes that the distribution will be made within the next few weeks.
§ Colonel BURTONCan the hon. and gallant Member tell us what the loss was, and what is the amount by which the growers of Somerset are still out of pocket?
§ Major HENNESSYI am afraid I cannot give that information, but I will ask my right hon. Friend.