Mr. DOYLEasked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the statement of the Food Controller that margarine is to be de-controlled in the near future, that many British margarine factories have been established during the War affording employment to large numbers of the working population, and that such factories are estimated to be capable of supplying all the present needs of the community, such measures will be taken as will ensure that this new industry shall be protected from unfair and unnecessary foreign competition?
§ Mr. G. ROBERTSI have been asked to reply. It is not within my province to decide whether any measure of protection should be extended to the margarine or any other British industry. I can only endeavour to secure the maintenance of a high standard of quality in all margarine manufactured hero. This industry has now been developed to such an extent that it is not only able to supply all the needs of this country, but is also in a position to compete on favourable terms with foreign manufacturers in their own markets.