Sea Island Cotton

HC Deb 23 July 1959 vol 609 cc1516-7

52. Mr. Royle

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what processing plants have been set up for the processing of sea island cotton during the years 1950 to 1959, inclusive; and what encouragement is being given by the United Kingdom Government in the development of this industry.

Mr. J. Amery

I understand that no new ginneries have been completed in the sea island cotton growing Colonies in the period mentioned. One, however, is being completely re-equipped.

In reply to the second part of the Question, the Central Cotton Station in Antigua is operated by the' Empire Cotton Growing Corporation and financed under a C.D. & W. scheme.

Mr. Royle

Is not this one of those cases of an industry which is going through very depressing times and in which the Government should come in with emergency financial aid?

Mr. Amery

Marketing is the problem at the present time. As I say, one ginnery has been completely re-equipped and this may help, but it will certainly not be a solution.