Memorandum submitted by B J Gooderham
SUGAR REFORM—WHO BENEFITS FROM PRICE
REDUCTIONS?
1. UK Growers—No
Already at a £10 per tonne disadvantage with
European growers. Only 50% of sugar produced in UK. Remainder
as imports.
2. ACP Countries—No
Even with a favourable price for the exports into
Europe ACP cane growers are struggling.
3. EBA Countries—No
If the ACP Countries struggle to make a living what
hope is there for the EBA Countries? Think about it!
4. Food Industry Manufacturers—No
Any reduction in their costs will immediately be
seized upon by the supermarkets who will demand their share.
5. The Consumer—No
As the sugar cost in products is very small the likely
effect is that there will be no change in the product end price.
6. The Environment—No
Sugar beet have considerable environment benefits.
The RSPB acknowledges this. Soil structure particularly on lighter
lands gains from the crop. Also worldwide increases in some countries
will lead to further rainforest destruction.
7. The Taxpayer—No
The present system does not get any governmental
or Treasury support whatsoever.
8. The Supermarkets—Yes
By squeezing their suppliers and failing to pass
on any reductions the supermarkets will gain enormously and increase
their stranglehold on agriculture.
B J Gooderham
September 2005
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