HC Deb 29 November 1933 vol 283 cc855-6
33. Mr. PETHERICK

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that the price of Accra cocoa in the European markets has now fallen to 15s. 6d. per cwt. f.o.b. Accra; and whether any action has been taken by His Majesty's Government upon the resolution relating to cocoa passed by the Monetary and Economic Conference?

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

I am aware that the present price of cocoa is most unsatisfactory and the position is being closely watched. I informed the House in reply to a question by my hon. Friend, the Member for the Moseley Division of Birmingham (Mr. Hannon) on the 16th instant that, a draft memorandum setting out the attitude of His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom had been prepared and sent for concurrence to the Governments of the Colonies and Protectorates interested in the production of cocoa. Two replies have already been received and, as soon as the remainder arrive, which I hope will be very soon, His Majesty's Government propose to send the memorandum to the Secretariat of the Monetary and Economic Conference with the request that a cocoa conference may be convened.