HC Deb 23 June 1954 vol 529 cc411-2
8. Mr. Marquand

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what representations have been received from either the Governments or the marketing boards in the Gambia, Sierra Leone, the Gold Coast and Nigeria against the proposed termination of bulk buying agreements for oils and fats.

Mr. Lyttelton

None, Sir.

Mr. Marquand

Is it not a fact that the Sierra Leone Marketing Board has been able to make an agreement with the oil processing industry of this country to take 60 per cent. of its oil products regularly on bulk purchase? Will the right hon. Gentleman see that similar arrangements for bulk purchase are continued, now that the Ministry of Food is no longer to enter into this matter?

Mr. Lyttelton

The termination of the contract was arranged at West Africa's request. It voluntarily made alternative arrangements with processers here.

Mr. Marquand

Is the right hon. Gentleman giving some encouragement to the continuation of bulk purchase even under private purchase?

Mr. Lyttelton

These marketing boards have the matter in hand and they have built up great knowledge and experience. If they get into difficulties I am willing to help them as much as I can.