§ 27. Mr. C. WILLIAMSasked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps his Department are taking to improve the position of the West Indian Sugar industry?
§ Dr. SHIELSI would refer the hon. Member to the statement of the policy of His Majesty's Government in regard to sugar which was published last year, and has on several occasions been explained in this House and in another place. Three free grants have been made by the Empire Marketing Board and two on the recommendation of the Colonial Development Advisory Committee for research and development work, in all amounting to £14,575. In connection with relief work in British Guiana considerable sums, amounting last year to £40,000, have been and are being provided by way of loan for improvements on sugar estates, mainly in 380 housing and sanitation. The hon. Member will be aware that very substantial assistance is being given to several West Indian sugar colonies in the form of deficiency and relief grants.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSCould not the hon. Gentleman do something to encourage the consumption of British-grown sugar in this country?
§ Mr. HANNONIs there any possible means of assisting this industry except increased preferential treatment by this country?