§ 44. Mr. RAMSBOTHAMasked the Minister of Agriculture whether his attention has been called to the present price of potatoes in Lancashire, which has fallen to the lowest figure ever recorded; and whether, as this price does not repay cultivation, he proposes to take any steps, and, if so, what, to guarantee an economic price to the growers?
§ Mr. N. BUXTONI am fully aware of the very low prices ruling for potatoes in Lancashire and throughout the country. While it is not part of the Government's policy to guarantee a price for potatoes, I am of opinion that the present difficulties can largely be avoided in future if growers will organise on national lines for the orderly marketing of the crop, for securing the general adoption of the statutory grades, and for the disposal of below-grade and surplus potatoes, and I shall be most happy to provide any advice or assistance in my power to growers and merchants in the task of improving the position.
§ Mr. RAMSBOTHAMWill the right hon. Gentleman consider the application to this crop of the economic principles contained in the Coal Mines Bill?