HC Deb 05 April 1976 vol 909 cc67-8W
Mr. Biffen

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what assessment he has made of the likely impact of high fructose sugar on the sugar beet industries of the United Kingdom and the EEC; how many high fructose sugar plants are currently under construction in the EEC; what are the expected raw materials for such output in Europe; what work on this topic is being undertaken by the Agricultural Research Council; and if he will make a statement.

and other bodies. This is to be a concerted attack on six specific diseases including bilharzia on which existing drugs and vaccines and associated research activities have so far made an inadequate impact. I have stated my readiness to make a British contribution to this initiative.

Following is the information:

Mr. Bishop

My right hon. Friend and I are taking account of the likely future production of high fructose corn syrup in the consideration now being given to the reorganisation of the United Kingdom sugar refining industry. One plant for the production of high fructose corn syrup from maize is under construction in the United Kingdom. I understand that two are planned in other parts of the Community, also using maize inputs.

The Agricultural Research Council is not undertaking any work on this process.

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