HC Deb 09 March 1931 vol 249 cc796-7
44. Mr. HURD

asked the Minister of Agriculture how many sugar-beet producers there were in each of the past two seasons in Wiltshire, Somerset, Hampshire, and Berkshire, respectively; what was their total production; and what steps are in contemplation to enable this production to be continued with profit to the producers?

Dr. ADDISON

As the information desired by the hon. Member is somewhat detailed, I will, with his permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Mr. HURD

Can the right hon. Gentleman answer the last clause of the question, what steps are in contemplation to enable this production to be continued with profit to the producers?

Dr. ADDISON

The answer to that is the recent arrangement that helped the growers to obtain a price, which has been very effective.

Mr. HURD

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that that shuts out entirely beet growers in very large sections of the country which are remote from factories?

Dr. ADDISON

The arrangement was the best that could be devised for the factories and the growers.

Following is the information:

I am unable to state the number of beet growers in the counties named in 1929 and 1930, The acreage and production of sugar beet were, however, as follow:

In reply to the last part of the question, I would refer the hon. Member to the announcement made by the Prime Minister on the 12th February last, to which I am unable to make any addition.

56. Captain BOURNE

(for Captain P. MACDONALD) asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is yet in a position to state in what districts the Anglo-Dutch group has entered into contracts with sugar-beet growers; and how these contracts affect growers outside the factory areas?

Dr. ADDISON

I am not in possession of information to enable me to answer this question.