HC Deb 04 June 1942 vol 380 c813
64. Mr. David Adams

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies whether, in view of the fact that in certain West Indian Islands there are abundant raw materials, coco beans, sugar, etc., for the manufacture of chocolate and sweets which are at present imported, encouragement is being given to the manufacture of these in the islands concerned?

The Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. Harold Macmillan)

West Indian Governments were long ago urged to take all possible steps to reduce the dependence of the West Indies on imported foodstuffs of all kinds; and this would include the stimulating of local production of confectionery in so far as facilities existed or could be created for this purpose.

Mr. Adams

Is the Minister fully aware that the present situation is detrimental to local industries in the West Indies?