HC Deb 03 May 1934 vol 289 cc467-8
31. Mr. MOLSON

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will amend the terms of reference of the Sugar Industry Inquiry Committee so as to permit them to recommend that all State aid be withdrawn, even though such withdrawal would entail the extinction of the industry?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I see no reason to make any alteration in the terms of reference given to the Committee, which are very widely drawn.

Mr. MOLSON

Do I understand the Chancellor to say that it will be possible for the Committee to arrive at the conclusion that this is an uneconomic industry and should not be assisted in any way by the State?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I did not say that, but I think it would be possible for the Committee to say that.

Lieut.-Colonel HENEAGE

Is my right hon. Friend aware that if the suggestion in the last part of the question were adopted, it would throw many agricultural labourers out of employment?