HC Deb 28 January 1941 vol 368 cc425-6
70. Mr. David Adams

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether consideration has been given, in association with America, to a scheme for storing Colonial surpluses for release after the war?

Mr. Greenwood

I have been asked to reply. Measures to deal with Colonial and other surplus comodities are being actively considered, in connection with the general problem of surpluses, by a Committee of Ministers, over which I preside, assisted by an Official Committee under the chairmanship of Sir Frederick Leith-Ross.

Mr. Adams

Can my right hon. Friend say when we are likely to have a report on this subject?

Mr. Greenwood

There is no question of a report; it is a question of taking action, and action has already been taken to purchase Colonial surpluses.

Mr. Adams

I take it that the action will not be similar to that which was taken with regard to the cocoa crop, which was destroyed?

Mr. Greenwood

All questions of surpluses are being solved in consultation with the Colonies.