HC Deb 31 January 1929 vol 224 cc1131-3
45. Colonel WEDGWOOD

asked the Prime Minister whether he can give the House any information as to the proposed

canned and bottled vegetables into this country; and if he can classify these vegetables into those that can and cannot be grown in this country;

(2) the quantity and worth of retained imports of canned or bottled fruits into this country for the latest year available; and if he can itemise these fruits so as to show those which are or can be grown in this country and those which cannot?

The MINISTER of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Guinness)

With the hon. Member's permission, I will circulate in the OFFICIAL REPORT a statement giving particulars of the imports of canned and bottled vegetables and fruits for the year 1927. I regret that, except in the case of tomatoes and pineapples, the available statistics do not show separately the imports of the various vegetables or fruits. Tomatoes are, of course, extensively grown in this country, but pineapples cannot be produced here on a commercial scale.

Commander BELLAIRS

In these statistics, would my right hon. Friend give the Empire figures separately?

Mr. GUINNESS

The figures are to be circulated this afternoon, but I will see whether that information is available.

Following is the statement:

Royal Commission on Indian Labour; and whether the Indian workers will be represented on the Commission, and particularly the Servants of India Society?

The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Baldwin)

On the recommendation of the Government of India it has been decided to appoint a Royal Commission to inquire into the conditions of labour in India. Until the Terms of Reference and personnel have been settled, and both matters are now under consideration, I can make no statement beyond saying that Indian labour will be represented on the Commission.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Why do we get this information from the Press first instead of in this House? Will steps be taken to avoid the unfortunate misapprehension which occurred in connection with the Simon Commission?

The PRIME MINISTER

I am afraid that I have no knowledge about the latter question. With regard to the first question, there is nothing unusual in a statement of this kind, which affects India so directly, being made by the Viceroy.

Mr. RENNIE SMITH

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the appointment of one or more British trade union leaders?

The PRIME MINISTER

That question had better be put to the India Office.