HC Deb 01 August 1951 vol 491 cc1428-9
7. Mr. Hurd

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he can make a statement on the harvest of groundnut, and other crops grown this season by the Overseas Food Corporation in Tanganyika; and if he can now give an indication of the cropping and cattle grazing plans for the coming year.

Mr. J. Griffiths

Harvesting is still in full operation in all three of the Corporation's areas in Tanganyika and only tentative estimates of the eventual yields can now be given. The Corporation hope to harvest 8,500 tons of groundnuts, 9,500 tons of maize and 4,500 tons of sorghum. Plans for the 1951–52 agricultural year have not yet been settled.

Mr. Hurd

After meeting the food requirements of the local population, will there be any substantial quantity of groundnuts and maize available for shipment here; and will the right hon. Gentleman make a further statement about future plans as soon as he has anything definite in view?

Mr. Griffiths

With regard to the second part of that supplementary question, Mr. Gillett, the new chairman, has now gone out to East Africa. I saw him before he went, and I have arranged that as soon as everything is settled he will report, and I will make a full statement here. I should prefer not to commit myself about the detailed figures. Perhaps I could send them to the hon. Gentleman after I have made further inquiries.

Mr. Hurd

Will there be something available for this country after local requirements have been met?

Mr. Griffiths

There will be, but I should not like to commit myself as to the amount.