§ 15. Mr. HANNONasked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the serious situation of the orange-growing industry in South Africa consequent upon the enlarged import into Great Britain of oranges from foreign countries; whether he is aware of the low prices at which these foreign oranges are placed upon the British market and which render the preference to British Empire oranges under the Ottawa agreement ineffective; and whether an increased measure of preference can be accorded to this industry in South Africa, in view of the fact that many retired men of His Majesty's forces and civil servants have invested their savings in this industry in South Africa?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANI am aware of the competition between South African and foreign oranges. Under the Ottawa agreement, South African oranges enjoy a preference of 3s. 6d. per cwt. between 1st April and 30th November in each year and the import of South African oranges into this market is increasing. As regards the last part of the question, a number of competing considerations would have to be taken into account before action on the lines suggested by my hon. Friend could be contemplated.
§ Mr. HANNONMay I ask whether in the new Anglo-Brazilian agreement he has taken into account the situation in South Africa and taken steps to safeguard the interests of our Dominions?
§ Colonel WEDGWOODWill the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that the best oranges we get come from Palestine?
§ Mr. HANNONMay I have a reply to my question?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANAll these matters are taken into consideration.