HC Deb 08 December 1952 vol 509 cc21-2
27. Mr. Osborne

asked the Minister of Food if he will make a statement on the world sugar conference which is to meet in London next year.

Dr. Hill

As the answer is rather long I will, with permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the answer: At its meeting in London on the 24th of November this year, the International Sugar Council adopted a resolution in the following terms: The International Sugar Council, having considered at its meeting on 24th November, 1952, and at previous meetings the statistical position on the world sugar market, finds that the situation is such that international action is required to overcome the difficulties which have arisen and which will continue if such action is not taken;
  1. (1) considers that a commodity agreement offers the best means of dealing with such difficulties;
  2. (2) recognises that such an agreement will require negotiation at an international commodity conference;
  3. (3) requests the Secretary-General of the United Nations to convene an international sugar conference to consider the conclusion of an international sugar agreement;
  4. (4) suggests that this conference be held in London late in June or at the beginning of July, 1953;
  5. (5) authorises the Chairman of the International Sugar Council to place the full facilities of the Secretariat of the Council at the disposal of the United Nations for such a conference."

The United Kingdom Government, before signifying its approval to this resolution, consulted the other parties to the Commonwealth Sugar Agreement, as it is required to do by Article 11 of that Agreement.

I understand that a copy of the resolution was sent to the Secretary-General of the United Nations a few days ago, but that no answer has yet been received.

49. Mr. Willey

asked the Minister of Food the total consumption of sugar by domestic consumers and manufacturers, respectively, for the 12 month periods ended 1st November, 1951. and 1st November, 1952.

Dr. Hill

During the year ended 3rd November, 1951, approximately 1,041,000 tons for domestic consumption and 897,000 tons for manufacturing, and in the year ended 1st November, 1952, 933,000 tons and 857,000 tons respectively.

Mr. Willey

Will the Parliamentary Secretary say when he hopes to be in a position to purchase more sugar?

Dr. Hill

When our balance of payments permits us the necessary dollars.

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