§ 48. Mr. LOUIS SMITHasked the Minister of Agriculture if his attention has been called to the fact that an emergency committee has been appointed to deal with the crisis that has arisen in the potato industry; and whether his Department proposes to co-operate with this body especially with regard to the restriction or limitation of the importation of foreign potatoes?
§ Mr. N. BUXTONThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. I am glad to provide such assistance and advice as may be in my power to any responsible organisation which is concerned to improve the marketing of any home agricultural produce. I am not, however, prepared to introduce legislation restricting or prohibiting the importation of articles of food.
§ Mr. GRANVILLEAs this is largely an experiment in marketing, will the right hon. Gentleman consider making a grant for an experiment in this industry?
§ Mr. BUXTONI do not think the Ministry have any legal powers to make a grant, but we have strongly recommended a scheme not only for grading, but for marketing which I hope will be adopted.
§ Mr. GRANVILLEWill the right hon. Gentleman make a recommendation to the Empire Marketing Board to that effect?
§ Mr. BUXTONPerhaps the hon. Member will put down a question.
Earl WINTERTONWill the right hon. Gentleman consider including potatoes in the investigation he is making into the stabilisation scheme put forward by hon. Members below the Gangway?
§ Mr. BUXTONYes, Sir.