§ 32. Mr. Maudlingasked the Minister of Food what use was made of the 1,325,330 tons of non-Empire sugar which was imported into the United Kingdom in the year ended August, 1950.
§ Mr. WebbThe total quantity was, in fact, rather less than 1,200,000 tons. This raw sugar was needed to replace Empire sugar diverted to Canada, and to replace refined sugar exported from this country in order to earn hard currency or to save dollar expenditure in sterling area countries.
§ Mr. MaudlingHow can the Minister reconcile that with his statement of 16th November that all sugar imported for consumption in the United Kingdom comes from Commonwealth and preferential sources?
§ Mr. WebbThere is no confusion there. We entered into an arrangement—a very good arrangement—with the Colonies and Dominions to use part of our sterling sugar in order to save dollar expenditure. If the hon. Gentleman does not believe me, I shall be pleased to talk to him outside when, perhaps, I can convince him.