§ 36. Mr. LOUIS SMITHasked the Minister of Agriculture if he has received the report of the committee on sugar-beet; and, if so, whether he is in a position to outline the long-term policy of the Government towards this branch of industry?
§ Mr. ELLIOTThe report referred to has not yet been received. I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply I gave on 30th July last to the hon. Member for Bethnal Green, South-West when I stated that it was expected that the committee would report in November.
§ Mr. ELLIOTI am circulating figures in the OFFICIAL REPORT.
§ Following are the figures:
§ Mr. SMITHHaving regard to the fact that considerable employment would be found in this branch of agriculture if the industry were assured of stability, will the right hon. Gentleman accelerate the decision of the Government in the matter?
§ Mr. ELLIOTI can assure the hon. Member that the report will be taken into consideration as soon as it is received.