HC Deb 22 November 1954 vol 533 c749
1. Mr. Driberg

asked the Minister of Food if his attention has been called to the waste of sugar damaged by damp and rats while stored in dilapidated huts at the disused airfield at Willingale, Essex; how many tons of sugar have been spoiled; when this store was last officially inspected, and what report on its condition was submitted by the inspector; and if he will make a statement.

The Minister of Food (Mr. Heathcoat Amory)

This sugar was not under my Department's control; I understand that it has been moved.

Mr. Driberg

Is the Minister interested at all if there is a serious waste of sugar? Does he make any representations?

Mr. Amory

No, Sir. I am not responsible for the management of the British Sugar Corporation, which was, I think, the owner of the sugar. If the hon. Member is interested, perhaps he will apply to that corporation for information.

Mr. Langford-Holt

Is the Minister aware that this sugar is the residue of over 4,000 tons, and that, after 100 tons had been re-processed, only 37 cwts. out of the 4,000 tons were wasted?

Mr. Amory

I understand that the loss in this case was very small.

Mr. Driberg

Can the Minister say where the sugar was moved to or what happened to it?

Mr. Amory

No, Sir. I am afraid that I cannot.