§ 53. Mr. Morganasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has conferred with the West Indian Committee with regard to the policy to be adopted by His Majesty's Government at the coming International Sugar Conference with regard to the colonial sugar problem; and, if not, whether he will consult that body at the earliest opportunity?
§ Mr. Ormsby-GoreI have arranged to have available, in connection with the coming International Sugar Conference, a committee of representatives of the principal Colonial producers, and the West India Committee have been asked to nominate gentlemen to serve on that committee on behalf of the West Indian Colonies generally.
Mr. AlexanderIs the right hon. Gentleman in touch with the Sugar Commission in regard to the extension of the beet sugar industry in this country in relation to the Colonial industry?
§ Mr. Ormsby-GoreAt the International Sugar Conference the Minister of Agriculture represents the interests of this country, and I represent the interests of the Colonial producers.
Mr. AlexanderAm I to understand that the Sugar Commission never consults the Secretary of State for the Colonies?
§ Mr. Ormsby-GoreI did not say anything of the kind. This is an advisory committee.
Viscountess AstorDoes nobody represent the consumers of sugar, and can it be made known what is the cost of the sugar beet industry in this country?
§ Mr. Ormsby-GoreThis is a question of a conference in regard to a purely Colonial matter. The Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Trade represents the consumers at the conference; it has nothing to do with me.