§ 58. Mr. Louis Smithasked 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. Maxwellasked 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. SmithShould an additional factory be established, will the Minister consider increasing the total acreage in the country allowed for subsidy?
§ Mr. RamsbothamThe 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. LeachBefore 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?