HC Deb 06 July 1926 vol 197 cc1869-70
38. Mr. FOOT MITCHELL

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in connection with the grant of £1,000,000 to the Empire Marketing Board, he can now state what sum is to be allocated to protect the interests of home producers and the directions in which it is proposed that this sum should be spent?

Mr. GUINNESS

The Empire Marketing Board is now considering various proposals which will, it is hoped, assist the marketing of home produce, but they do not feel that the general purposes for which the grant was proposed would best be served by the allocation in advance of a specific sum for the furtherance of home interests only.

Sir H. BRITTAIN

Can the right hon. Gentleman give any indication as to when the allocation is likely to be commenced?

Mr. GUINNESS

Various proposals have been put forward and are being considered.

Mr. A. V. ALEXANDER

Do we understand that the Empire Marketing Board is administering both funds for British and Empire Produce?

Mr. GUINNESS

They will make grants for approved purposes.