§ 35. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether and when the recommendations of the West African Cocoa Commission, respecting the abolition of the buyers' monopoly and the formation of a sellers' organisation, are likely to be implemented?
Mr. M. MacDoualdThe recommendations regarding the formation of a sellers' organisation are of a far-reaching nature. They are receiving very careful consideration in consultation with the Governors of the Colonies concerned, but it is not yet possible to state whether or when they will be carried into effect. The buying agreement was suspended by the parties to it last May and has not been resumed.
§ Mr. SorensenCan the right hon. Gentleman say the approximate date when this proposal will be put into effect?
Mr. MacDonaldI am afraid that I cannot give any approximate date. It is a very far reaching proposal, and is being considered with as little delay as possible.
Mr. AlexanderCan we have the right hon. Gentleman's assurance as Secretary of State that there will be no renewal of the buyers' monopoly with the approval of the Secretary of State?
Mr. MacDonaldI should require notice of an important question like that before I give a definite assurance. All sorts of circumstances have to be borne in mind.
§ Mr. H. G. WilliamsCan the Secretary of State give the names of this buyers' monopoly? Is it not associated in this country with an organisation known as the Popular Front?