§ 88. Sir F. Sandersonasked the Under-secretary of State for India whether he will take steps to secure that adequate and efficient storage facilities are provided by the erection of modern elevators throughout India so as to prevent the tremendous loss now sustained by weevils, rats and other pests, estimated at 10 per cent. of the yearly crop of approximately 50,000,000 tons.
§ Mr. A. HendersonThis serious problem has occupied the active attention of the authorities in India for some time and 1569 a very large volume of specially designed storage accommodation has been built in almost every Province and State in India. I am advised that modern elevators are not necessarily the best way of storing grain under Indian conditions but I am bringing the hon. Member's suggestion to the notice of the Government of India.
§ Sir F. SandersonIs my hon. and learned Friend aware that if proper care were taken of the Indian grain the recurrence of the scourge of scarcity would not arise?
§ Mr. HendersonAs I have already indicated, this problem has already received very careful consideration by the Government of India in the past, and whether the suggestion of my hon. Friend is a good one remains to be decided by the Government of India.