HC Deb 24 June 1918 vol 107 cc701-2
24 Mr. ROWLANDS

asked the President of the Board of Agriculture (1) whether he is aware how many county marketing committees have been organised for the purpose of marketing the surplus fruits, vegetables, etc., of small cultivators, and in which counties; what is the number of members; (2) in how many places arrangements have been made under Scheme 2 of the Board, through the trade agent, for marketing the surplus fruits, vegetables, etc., of the small cultivators; what is the number of marketing committees and the names of the towns and villages where it is being worked; and (3) whether he can state the number of places in which arrangements have been made, under Scheme 3 of the Board, by small markets and market stalls, for marketing the surplus produce of small cultivators; and can he say where the scheme is in existence?

The PRESIDENT Of the BOARD of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Prothero)

I should explain that the schemes are being put into operation by the Food Production Department on a county basis, and I can give my hon. Friend information only as to counties. In thirty-eight counties a central county marketing committee has been set up, or other arrangements made, for the collection and disposal of produce throughout the county. In four other counties similar organisations are in process of formation. Scheme 2, described in the Board's pamphlet, has been adopted so far by Herefordshire only. Scheme 3 is in operation in eight counties. I am sending my hon. Friend a list of all these counties. I regret that I am unable to state the number of shareholders or members of the marketing societies, most of which have only come into existence in the course of the last few weeks.

Mr. LOUGH

Will the right hon. Gentleman say whether in those counties in which the marketing committees are set up it is legal for the grower to dispose of his produce through other channels if he pleases?

Mr. PROTHERO

I should say most certainly it was, but if the right hon. Gentleman will repeat his question, I will find out definitely on that point.