HC Deb 23 February 1937 vol 320 cc1828-9
58. Mr. Louis Smith

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in view of the public inquiry into the establishment of a beet sugar factory in West Wales, the Government will, before giving effect to it, consider its repercussions upon the beet sugar industry in England and Scotland; and whether, for that purpose, it will consult the different agricultural organisations in the country?

59. Mr. Maxwell

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he will inquire into the proposal of the Sugar Commission to erect a beet sugar factory in Pembroke-shire, seeing that such a step would entail reducing the acreage allotted to existing factories?

The Minister of Pensions (Mr. Ramsbotham)

I have been asked to reply. Acting on a request made by my right hon. Friend's predecessor, the Sugar Commission are investigating the possibility of establishing a beet sugar factory in Pembrokeshire, and I have no doubt that in their consideration of this question the commission will bear in mind the interests of growers in Great Britain generally.

Mr. Smith

Should an additional factory be established, will the Minister consider increasing the total acreage in the country allowed for subsidy?

Mr. Ramsbotham

The question of whether it has repercussions on the rest of the industry will be considered primarily by the Commission, and finally by my right hon. Friend.

Mr. Leach

Before the Minister takes any action in the direction of giving further fresh subsidies to beet-sugar factories, will he consult with the West Indies, which are so greatly affected?