HC Deb 05 February 1941 vol 368 cc947-8
15. Mr. Hubert Beaumont

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether, in view of the grave difficulties facing the Palestine citrus trade as a result of the total lack of shipping facilities for the export of this year's crop, other than shipping controlled by His Majesty's Government which might be made available, he has now considered what adequate assistance could be rendered to the citrus growers so as to enable them to keep their groves under cultivation and to tide over the present critical period?

Mr. George Hall

This matter has for some time formed the subject of correspondence with the High Commissioner for Palestine, and comprehensive proposals for assisting the industry have been received in the course of the last few days. These proposals are now under urgent examination.

Mr. Beaumont

When is it likely that my hon. Friend will be in a position to make a statement?

Mr. Hall

In the course of a few weeks.

16. Mr. G. Macdonald (for Mr. David Adams)

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether, for the better organisation of the citrus industry, it is the intention of the High Commissioner for Palestine to establish a Citrus Control Board to impose statutory supervision over the whole industry; and whether both Jews and Arabs will be represented upon this authority?

Mr. Hall

Yes, Sir. This Board has already been set up and includes both Jewish and Arab members.