HC Deb 24 February 1937 vol 320 cc1983-4
37. Lieut.-Colonel Sandeman Allen

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether, in connection with the coming International Sugar Conference in London, the Government have consulted the leaders of the Colonial sugar industry; and whether in that case he can state their names?

Mr. Ormsby-Gore

My predecessors and I have kept in close contact with representatives of the Colonial sugar industry, both by correspondence through the Colonial Governments concerned and by personal interviews in London, throughout the course of negotiations which commenced at the World Economic Conference in 1933 and have now led to the summoning of the International Conference. It would be impossible to give a list of the many names of those who have been consulted from time to time.

Mr. Bellenger

Who will represent His Majesty's Government at this conference?

Mr. Ormsby-Gore

I think the hon. Member had better put that question down. Obviously the United Kingdom will be represented, and I shall represent the Colonial Empire. The other parts of the Empire will also he represented.

Mr. Leach

How many protests against our sugar beet policy are pigeon-holed in the Department?

Mr. Ormsby-Gore

I have not had any. The assistance given by this House and the Government to the Colonial sugar industry is enormously appreciated.