HC Deb 24 June 1958 vol 590 cc233-4
40. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what further legislation he intends introducing to deal with agriculture in Scotland.

Mr. Maclay

I am not at present in a position to make any announcement about future legislation.

Mr. Hughes

Can the Minister give us an assurance that if any future legislation dealing with agriculture in Scotland comes to his attention it will be sent to the Scottish Grand Committee? The Committee on the Agriculture Bill, which affects Scotland, contained only 6 Scottish Members out of 45. A very large number of Scottish Members have wished to put points for their agricultural constituents but have been unable to do so. The whole thing is grossly unfair to the farming community of Scotland.

Mr. Maclay

I do not accept that for one minute. Replying to the main question, I am not prepared to hypothecate, if that is the right word, about the future.