HC Deb 22 January 1969 vol 776 cc481-2
38. Miss Quennell

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what is the proportion of British-grown sugar in the total consumption.

Mr. Hoy

In 1967, 34 per cent. Figures for 1968 are not yet available.

Miss Quennell

Can the hon. Gentleman say what work his Department has done to investigate the practical aspects of implementing the "Little Neddy" Report for the expansion of the sugar beet crop, bearing in mind that no really suitable break crop has been discovered and that this offers an admirable break crop as well as an import saver?

Mr. Hoy

As the hon. Lady knows, we have studied the possibility of a break crop. But we have to consider what we are to do in line with the Commonwealth Sugar Agreement. Many hon. Members in all parts of the House urged us to maintain the Agreement and, when we do, obviously it imposes limitations on beet.