HC Deb 12 November 1957 vol 577 c774
46. Mr. Brockway

asked the Prime Minister what conclusions were reached in the official discussions which he had with the Prime Minister of the Sudan regarding the difficulties which have arisen in the disposal of the cotton crop of the Gezira.

The Prime Minister

My right hon. Friends and I had very useful discussions with the Prime Minister of the Sudan, but regret that I cannot, without a breach of confidence, disclose the conclusions reached.

Mr. Brockway

Is the Prime Minister aware that the Gezira scheme is one of the greatest British achievements in Africa? Will he do his utmost to secure that that scheme is maintained by enabling the cotton produced by it to be sold at a rate which is acceptable to the Sudan?

The Prime Minister

Yes. I am sure that we are all very anxious that that should be achieved. As the hon. Member knows, there is much good will in Lancashire towards the Sudan, and I am sure that, provided prices are competitive, Lancashire will continue to be an important market for Sudanese cotton.