§ 61. Mr. SANDYSasked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs what was the average total annual cost of the Empire Marketing Board; what was the average annual contribution of the United Kingdom; and what were the reasons for its abolition?
The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for DOMINION AFFAIRS (Marquess of Hartington)The Empire Marketing Board was financed entirely by His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom, whose total payments in the eight financial years during which the board was in existence amounted to £3,681,500, representing an average annual payment of approximately £460,000. As regards the third part of the question, I would refer the hon. Member to the statement issued to the Press on 8th August, 1933, of which I am sending him a copy.
§ Mr. DAYCan the Noble Lord inform us what department or committees are carrying out the work done by the Empire Marketing Board?
Marquess of HARTINGTONIf the hon. Gentleman will read the report, of which I will also send him a copy, I think he will fully understand my answer.
§ Mr. SANDYSIn view of the great benefits conferred by the Empire Marketing Board, will the Noble Lord consider, now that economy is no longer the order of the day, setting it up again?
Marquess of HARTINGTONI cannot for one moment agree that economy is not of vital importance also. If the hon. Gentleman will read the report to which I referred, he will find that the more important part of the duties of the board are being continued, and I think he will fully understand the position.