HC Deb 21 October 1943 vol 392 cc1517-8
53. Sir Reginald Clarry

asked the Minister of Agriculture why programmes for research in the sugar and beet industry for the year commencing 1st April, 1943, were not authorised until the making of the requisite order (S.R. & O., No. 1413, of 1943) on 15th September, 1943; and whether research work in the laboratories and other institutions concerned was suspended during the period 1st April to 15th September?

Mr. Hudson

There is no break in the continuity of research and education in matters affecting the growing of homegrown sugar beet under Section 6 (2) of the Sugar Industry Act, 1942. The full cost of the work to be undertaken and therefore the contributions required from the industry, in respect of any year, cannot be finally determined until later in that year. The Order, which relates both to programmes and contributions from the industry, is issued when the full cost for the year is known.

Sir R. Clarry

Was research work suspended during that period?

Sir H. Williams

On what authority was the money spent which has not been authorised?

Mr. Hudson

My hon. Friend had better put that question down.