HC Deb 11 August 1920 vol 133 c432W
Mr. TICKLER

asked the Minister of Food the quantity of sugar delivered to manufacturers by the Sugar Commission during the first three months of the year 1920 and the quantity delivered to them during the second quarter; and if the quantity estimated to be taken is being taken?

Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSON

The quantity of sugar distributed to manufacturers by the Royal Commission on the Sugar Supply during the first period of 12 weeks of this year was 88,388 tons, and during the second period 68,312 tons. The actual requirements of manufacturers appear at present to be less than the quantity originally estimated as being required.

Mr. TICKLER

asked the Minister of Food if he is aware that the same sugar for which the Sugar Commission are charging manufacturers £145 per ton is being sold in Mincing Lane at £138; is this a case of profiteering on the part of the Commission; and, if not, will he instruct the Commission to bring their prices into line with the market value of the article?

Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSON

The prices of sugar for manufacturing purposes as charged by the Royal Commission on the Sugar Supply are revised regularly to conform to the prices ruling in the world's markets. The Commission's price for white sugar since the 9th instant has been £140 per ton, and free sugar of similar quality was sold yesterday in Mincing Lane at the same price.