HC Deb 05 November 1929 vol 231 cc819-20
72. Major COLVILLE

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that the potato growers have suffered losses during this year; that, in spite of the fact that the home-grown supply is ample for home consumption, the importation of foreign potatoes continues; and what action he is prepared to take to deal with a situation that will cause much land to go out of cultivation?

The SECRETARY of STATE for SCOTLAND (Mr. William Adamson)

The answer to the first two parts of the question is in the affirmative. With regard to the last part I have already been in consultation with the Scottish Chamber of Agriculture on the subject, and have strongly urged that growers should better organise the marketing of their potatoes.

Major COLVILLE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that, in spite of the fact that producers have been heavily hit, consumers have not benefited; and will he consider why the Council of Consumers should not take this matter into their careful consideration?

Mr. ADAMSON

That is just the reason why I gave this advice to the Chamber of Agriculture.