HC Deb 29 March 1926 vol 193 cc1642-3
51. Mr. AMMON

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he will state the objects of the lactose factory erected by the State at Haslington in 1919–20; and whether he can state the progress realised in the discovery of new processes?

Mr. GUINNESS

The object of the lactose factory was to discover an economic process for the utilisation of whey. In the opinion of those directly concerned with the experimental work, this object has been achieved. The process is described in a monograph recently published by the Ministry, a copy of which I am sending to the hon. Member.

Mr. AMMON

Is it now proposed to sell the factory to private interests, and, if so, will the sale include the discoveries that have been made?

Mr. GUINNESS

The factory has been publicly sold by tender.

Mr. AMMON

Have the results of the experiments made at the Government expense also been handed over to private interests?

Mr. GUINNESS

I do not think there are any secrets about the process.

Sir F. WISE

Was it sold at a profit?

Mr. GUINNESS

I am afraid not; it was built just after the War, at very heavy expense.