HC Deb 01 March 1945 vol 408 c1558
53. Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas Cook

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he is aware that Norfolk sugar-beet, consigned to the Spalding factory during February, has been turned back and wasted; and how many tons are involved.

Mr. T. Williams

A total of 1,439 tons of beet consigned from Norfolk was rejected at the factory as unsuitable for sugar manufacture. Most of this beet was, by arrangement with the growers, disposed of as stock feed. Only 60 tons were sent back.

Mr. Granville

Is this factory still open and in a position to accept delivery of beet which has been left on the road side?

Mr. Williams

I cannot say at the moment.

Mr. Shinwell

In view of the undoubted waste that is involved, can my right hon. Friend say what the cause was and whether any remedy will be devised?

Mr. Williams

Obviously the loss of this tiny amount compared with the amount produced was the result of excessive frosts.