§ Mr. HENDERSON STEWART by Private Noticeasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware of the concern aroused among farmers at the reported decision to close down the only Scottish beet-sugar factory at Cupar; and, if in view of the fact that farmers in all parts of the country have prepared or are daily preparing their land for the next beet crop, and that if 35 the Cupar factory is closed confusion and much loss will be caused in many farms, he can make an immediate statement to re-assure Scottish growers?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for SCOTLAND (Sir Godfrey Collins)I am aware that the question of closing the Cupar sugar-beet factory has been under consideration by the Anglo-Scottish Beet Sugar Corporation, but no final decision has yet been taken in the matter, and I am not unhopeful that arrangements may be made under which the factory may be operated during the coming season.
§ Mr. H. STEWARTWhile thanking the right hon. Gentleman for his answer, may I ask, in view of the seriousness of the situation and the urgent need for reassurance, whether he will be in a position to make a definite statement if I repeat my question in a few days' time?
§ Sir G. COLLINSMy hon. Friend will have to wait more than two or three days, but I will communicate with him when I am in a position to make a statement on the subject.
Viscountess ASTORWill the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that sugar-beet has already cost the country £40,000,000? Will he therefore go slow before making any further grants and consider the need for nursery schools?