HC Deb 21 June 1938 vol 337 cc871-2
24. Mr. De la Bère

asked the President of the Board of Trade what steps the Government are taking to ensure a revival in the mills throughout the home corn-growing districts of this country?

Mr. Stanley

If my hon. Friend has any specific proposals in mind, I shall be happy to consider them.

Mr. De la Bère

Is my right hon. Friend not aware of the importance of wheat offals to the home producer, and would not the opening up of these mills do much to help the home producer? Further, is he aware that, owing to the stranglehold of the millers, no hope can be held out to the rural communities unless the Government intervene in their interests?

Mr. Stanley

That would be a general consideration rather than a specific proposal.

Mr. De la Bère

May I have an opportunity of telling my right hon. Friend afterwards all that I wish to say?

Mr. Stanley

I cannot guarantee that it shall be all.

Mr. J. J. Davidson

Does the request for specific proposals indicate that the Government have no policy?

32. Mr. De la Bère

asked the President of the Board of Trade the number of mills used for the milling of corn (wind, water and power mills) which are at present operating in this country?

Mr. Stanley

The number of mills in use for the milling of corn cannot be stated precisely, but it is believed to lie between 2,000 and 2,500. Of the larger establishments, employing an average of more than 10 persons, 432 were recorded in Great Britain at the Census of Production, 1935.

Mr. De la Bère

Will my right hon. Friend consider doubling this number, in order to assist the rural community?

Mr. Stanley

That may form the basis of our conversations when they are held.