HC Deb 23 February 1932 vol 262 cc213-4
61. Major CARVER

asked the Minister of Agriculture what amount of money was paid by the beet-sugar factories to the farmers for their sugar-beets during the last season for which records are complete; and how does this amount compare with the amount of assistance given to the factories during the same season by direct subsidy on sugar and molasses and by refund of excise duty, and by any other Government assistance?

Sir J. GILMOUR

In the 1930-31 season, the last, for which records are complete, the beet-sugar factories paid £7,626,000 to farmers for beets, while State assistance to the industry amounted to £8,810,000, including £6,140,000 for subsidy on sugar and molasses, and £2,670,000 duty preference.

Mr. HANNON

In the view of the Minister, was not this money very well invested in the interests of the products of British agriculture?