HC Deb 15 November 1950 vol 480 cc1721-2
59. Mr. W. Fletcher

asked the Minister of Food if he is yet in a position to make a statement on the future of the groundnut scheme.

Mr. Webb

I expect to receive the revised plan from the Corporation shortly, and, as soon as the Government have considered it, I will publish a White Paper.

Mr. W. Fletcher

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that a very long time has elapsed since he came into office and took this matter in hand? Is he further aware that the public, who are most anxious about this point, should be informed about the Government's policy in regard to the groundnut scheme at a very early date?

Mr. Webb

I do not think I have been backward in giving information about the situation. I promised that a White Paper would be ready at about the end of November. We shall probably be about two weeks late, but I do not think that is too bad.

Mr. Frederic Harris

Is it not a fact that the groundnut scheme has no future, although, unfortunately, it has a past?

Mr. Speaker

That is not a question asking for information.