§ 33. Mr. Marcus Samuelasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that the recent very heavy fall in the price of sugar in the world markets has caused great loss to the producers in His Majesty's Colonies and is contrary to the expectations held out to them last spring when the international agreement regarding the regulation of production and marketing of sugar was come to; and are any steps being taken to utilise the powers given to the council to adjust the statistical position to the present requirements of the market?
§ The Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. Ormsby-Gore)I am aware that there has been a fall in the price of sugar as well as of a number of other tropical commodities in recent months. I have no doubt that this, together with all other relevant factors, will receive the careful consideration of the International Sugar Council, but I am unable to predict what, if any, steps the International Council will take in the matter.
§ Mr. SamuelIs it not a fact that the agreement has not been ratified by Holland, or the United States?
§ Mr. Ormsby-GoreI believe that is so.