HC Deb 01 December 1927 vol 211 c734W
Mr. YOUNG

asked the Minister of Agriculture what amount of sugar beet was raised in Great Britain during the past four years; how much of this production was used in the manufacture of sugar in this country; how much sugar-beet pulp was exported; and whether it is under consideration by the Government or his Department to prohibit such exportation?

Mr. GUINNESS

The amount of sugar beet produced in Great Britain during the past four years is as follows:

Tons.
1924 183,713
1925 431,184
1926 1,117,071
1927 (estimated) 1,800,000

The whole of this beet was produced for the manufacture' of sugar. The amount of dried beet pulp exported was 4,657 tons in 1925–26 and 36,759 tons in 1926–27. Two large groups of factories have undertaken an extensive propaganda to bring to the attention of farmers the importance of sugar beet pulp as a food for stock with, I understand, the result that largely increased orders have been received for this season's pulp for use in Great Britain. I see no reason, therefore, for the Government to intervene in this matter.