§ SIR EDWARD BIRKBECK (Norfolk, E.)I beg to ask the President of the Board of Agriculture whether his attention has been drawn to the resolution passed at the Central Chamber of Agriculture, on 10th December last, in which it is stated that legislation to prevent the sale of adulterated manures and feeding stuffs is urgently needed; that the extension of the principle and the improvement of the administration of the Sale of Food and Drugs Act, or legislation on similar lines, appear to afford a convenient method of effecting the desired reform; and that the Board of Agriculture be requested to take steps to protect the British farmer in this matter; and whether he will introduce a Bill dealing with the matter during the present Session, or appoint a Select Committee to inquire into the subject?
§ THE PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF AGRICULTURE (Mr. CHAPLIN, Lincolnshire, Sleaford)Yes, Sir; my attention has been directed to the resolution passed by the Central Chamber of Agriculture on the 10th of December last. I concur in the opinion that legislation is desirable, and I am engaged in preparing a Bill on this subject at present. The hon. Member is aware of the business which the Government have before them already, but I hope it may be possible for me to introduce it during the Session.