§ 53 and 57. Mr. J. Johnsonasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies (1) how many weighbridges there are on the sugar estates of Mauritius; how many Government inspectors are employed; and how many estates there are with automatic weighing machines;
(2) if he is satisfied with the method of sampling, weighing and testing of canes of Mauritius sugar planters, before their delivery to the factories of the millers; and what action he is taking to encourage improved methods.
§ Mr. Lyttelton,pursuant to his reply [OFFICIAL REPORT, 12th May, 1954; Vol. 527, c. 75] supplied the following further information:
There are 157 weighbridges on sugar estates in Mauritius; the Government employs one Weighbridge Inspector; seven estates have automatic weighing machines. I am satisfied that methods now being employed of weighing, sampling and testing of sugar cane in Mauritius are reasonably accurate and fair. Only one case of inaccuracy in weighing machines has been discovered by the Inspector during the last three years. The method of determining sucrose content was re-examined in 1952 and found to require no modification. The Central Board and the Government are well aware of the need to ensure maximum efficiency in testing for sucrose content, and an alternative system has recently been examined in consultation with representatives of the planters' organisations and the Chamber of Agriculture.