§ Mr. Holdsworthasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the price of sugar has increased by nearly 2s. per hundredweight since the Government announced its intention of participating in the International Sugar Conference and that the cost to the consumer in this country of its sugar requirements is thereby increased at the rate of approximately £4,500,000 per annum; and whether he proposes to take any action to protect the consuming public?
§ Mr. Morganasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the recent sharp rise in the price of sugar is attributable to speculation on the outcome of the International Sugar Conference; and whether he proposes to take any steps to safeguard the interests of consumers in this respect?
§ Mr. RuncimanWorld prices of sugar began to rise towards the end of last year before the decision to convene an International Conference was reached. The announcement of the Conference has no doubt affected the market, but there are several other factors. I can assure the2774W hon. Gentlemen that the interests of consumers in relation to the forthcoming Conference will not be overlooked.