Citrus Industry

HC Deb 23 February 1955 vol 537 cc1269-70

35. Mr. Russell

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies the numbers employed in growing limes and processing them, respectively, in Dominica, in each of the last three years.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

The estimated number employed in growing limes during 1952 was 6,000, and during 1953 and 1954 5,400. The estimated numbers engaged in processing during these years were 650, 470 and 400.

Mr. Russell

What is the cause of the decline in the numbers employed?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

My hon. Friend has a Question on that matter shortly, when I will deal with the point. I am glad to say that, although the lime situation is serious, the increase in banana production has rather more than offset the loss of revenue caused by the drop in lime exports.

36. Mr. Russell

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies the effect in the British West Indies of placing United Kingdom imports of lime oil and orange juice under open general licence.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

Since the easing of the restrictions on United Kingdom imports of lime oil and orange juice prices have declined, so that B.W.I. exporters now have difficulty in selling in this market. The lime-oil industry has been particularly badly hit. I am awaiting further information on these problems from the fact-finding mission of inquiry into the West Indian citrus industry, whose report should be available shortly.

Mr. Russell

Can my right hon. Friend give an indication of the action which is likely to be taken to remedy this situation?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I must, of course, await the report, but I have already given an undertaking that if the citrus industry as a whole runs into serious difficulty Her Majesty's Government will take effective action to safeguard the position.

Mr. Bottomley

Does not the right hon. Gentleman agree that the best way to help West Indian growers today is by a long-term trade agreement? Could not he possibly give it consideration?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I am certain we are all anxious to give long-term security, but that by no means presupposes long-term trade agreements.