HC Deb 12 July 1950 vol 477 c1358
70. Mr. Peter Smithers

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what action is being taken to investigate the possibility of growing mangoes in the Colonial Empire for sale in the United Kingdom and elsewhere; and how far the problems connected with their transport and marketing have been brought to the attention of the appropriate departments.

Mr. Cook

The Colonial Primary Products Committee investigated this matter two years ago. They felt that the practical and economic difficulties involved in packing and shipping this fruit for export were likely to remain a handicap to the development of anything more than a luxury trade. My right hon. Friend proposes, however, to have a fresh inquiry made into the market possibilities.

Mr. Smithers

Will the Minister bear in mind that this is a matter of some urgency, as the American interests concerned are making rapid progress?

Mr. Cook

We are looking into it.

Dr. Morgan

Did my hon. Friend satisfy himself before he started that dehydrating facilities were available for the mangoes to be exported for food?

Mr. Cook

That is another question.