37. Mr. De la Bèreasked the Minister of Food whether it is the intention of the Government in future to encourage the importation of sugar loose in bulk instead of in bags so as to secure a saving in cost by the use of mechanical grabs and an additional saving in the cost of jute bags.
§ Dr. SummerskillThe report on the first experimental bulk shipment of sugar has not yet been completed. Until we know the results of this experiment, we are not able to assess the advantages of bulk importation.
Mr. De la BèreDo the Government fully understand the enormous saving in shipping, apart from the advantages which have been pointed out in the Question; and will they make quite sure that they are not put off by any people who are not so well informed as are the people in this House?
§ Dr. SummerskillI am never put off.
§ Colonel HaughtonCan the right hon. Lady say what is the attitude of the trade unions concerned to this form of discharging ships carrying sugar?
§ Dr. SummerskillNo Sir, I certainly could not without consulting the trade unions. There will be a report on the question, and no doubt the workers will be asked to give any information they can on the matter.