HC Deb 26 April 1950 vol 474 cc959-60
64. Mr. Hurd

asked the Minister of Food if he will inform the House of the reports which he has received from the Overseas Food Corporation on the harvest prospects for the sunflower and groundnut crops grown this season in Tanganyika.

Mr. Webb

The Overseas Food Corporation have not yet made any forecast of the probable outcome of the harvest which is just beginning. They will issue a preliminary report as soon as there is sufficient reliable information on which to base an estimate.

Mr. Hurd

In view of the many uncertainties that still persist about the scheme, will the Minister now set up an expert committee so that he is prepared for another crop failure at Kongwa?

Mr. Webb

We are looking into the whole question of groundnuts, and, in due course, the House will have the information.

Mr. Blackburn

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the Tory Party obviously believe in a policy of not developing the British Empire?