HC Deb 24 February 1931 vol 248 cc1944-5
38. Major COLVILLE

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware of the serious position existing in the fruit-growing industry in Scotland owing to the importation of cheap foreign fruit pulp; and if he will state what steps he proposes to take to maintain the present standard of employment in this industry?

Mr. W. ADAMSON

I have recently had an opportunity of meeting representatives of the fruit-growing industry and I am aware of the position. It is quite clear to me that the first necessity in this industry is that the Scottish growers should organise themselves and put their marketing arrangements on a sound basis, and I hope that the Marketing Bill will give them the opportunity to do so.

Major COLVILLE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that foreign fruit pulp was sold at less than half the cost of the production of the British article, and can he say in what way the Marketing Bill touches that question?

Mr. ADAMSON

I discussed that aspect of the difficulty with a deputation from the fruit growers the other night, and I am well aware of it.