§ 3. Mr. Dribergasked the Minister of Agriculture how soon he expects that it will be possible to start building a new sugar-beet factory in the South of England.
§ Sir T. DugdaleAs I explained in the reply that I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for Newbury (Mr. Kurd) on 19th November, 1953, this problem is being studied in the first place by a group of officials. The officials are now in process of taking the views of the representatives of the growers and others interested.
§ Mr. DribergHow long does that process take?
§ Sir T. DugdaleI think not very long. The officials are getting on with the inquiry as speedily as possible.
§ Mr. H. NichollsWill my right hon. Friend keep in mind that any new sugar-beet factory which will relieve congestion at the Peterborough sugar-beet factory will open up extra sugar beet acreage in that area, which is going to be very considerable?
§ Mr. D. MarshallIn view of his reply, can my right hon. Friend tell us whether the same consideration will be given in regard to a factory in the South-West of England?
§ Sir T. DugdaleI have answered the Question on the Order Paper.