Sugar Price

Oral Answers to Questions — Mauritius – in the House of Commons am 12:00 am ar 12 Mawrth 1947.

Danfonwch hysbysiad imi am ddadleuon fel hyn

Photo of Mr Henry Hynd Mr Henry Hynd , Hackney Central 12:00, 12 Mawrth 1947

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what price is paid for Mauritius sugar bought by Britain; and whether he is satisfied that this price gives a sufficient return to enable the Mauritius planters and their employees to attain a satisfactory standard of life.

Mr. Creech Jones:

The price to be paid by the Ministry of Food for the 1947 Mauritius sugar crop is £24 15s. 9d. per ton c.i.f. U.K. ports. I am satisfied that this increased price will give a reasonable return to planters and I am arranging for part of it to be set aside for rehabilitation of equipment and for price stabilisation in later years. Wages will share in the improved sugar price and it is also proposed to pay out of it a contribution towards labour welfare. But the main effort towards raising living standards must be concentrated on long-term schemes of development and welfare, to which I am giving attention.

Photo of Sir Waldron Smithers Sir Waldron Smithers , Orpington

Arising out of that answer, I should like to ask you, Mr. Speaker, a question. If the Secretary of State for the Colonies can give the price paid by this Government for bulk purchase, what means can I take to ensure that the Minister of Food will give similar information?

Photo of Mr Douglas Clifton Brown Mr Douglas Clifton Brown , Hexham

I cannot really answer these technical questions. I have no knowledge of these things.