§ 27. Mr. HURDasked the Minister of Agriculture what action he has taken, following upon the recommendation of the Linlithgow Committee (1923) that a small standing advisory committee be appointed, including members experienced in finance and commerce, to consider applications by co-operative societies and farmers' companies for loans for capital expenditure in connection with the sale, 831 preparation and manufacture of farm products on the lines of the committee's suggestions (Cmd. 2008, Sec. viii.)?
Mr. GUINNESSA Standing Committee of business men and persons interested in agriculture was appointed in May, 1924, under the chairmanship of the hon. Member for Finsbury (Mr. Gillett), to advise in regard to applications from agricultural co-operative societies undertaking the preparation and marketing of agricultural produce for long term loans to facilitate the acquisition of premises, plant and equipment. Loans to 14 societies to the total amount of nearly £50,000 have been approved to date on the recommendation of the Committee. Of this sum, loans to the extent of about £32,000 have been taken up.
§ Mr. HURDMay I ask if this is one of the matters which the Government have now under review in regard to the whole system of farming credits?