§ 63. Mr. CHARLES WILLIAMSasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what steps he is taking to increase the percentage of Empire-grown sugar consumed in this country?
§ Mr. P. SNOWDENSo far as the question of policy in regard to the Sugar Duties may be concerned, I must refer the hon. Member to previous replies on the subject. I would, however, remind him that a substantial preferential re-hate from the Sugar Duty is granted to Empire sugar, and, as I stated in Debate on 9th July last, the Government proposed to maintain existing preferences so long as the duties upon which those preferences are given remain in force.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSCan the right hon. Gentleman assure the House that he will do nothing to discourage the growth of sugar within the Empire?
§ Mr. SNOWDENMy policy never discourages industry. It is always devised for the purpose of encouraging it.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSMay we conclude that the right hon. Gentleman will not reduce the preference?
§ Mr. SNOWDENIt must not be assumed that I regard protective duties as being an encouragement to industry.