§ 55. Mr. C. WILLIAMSasked the Minister of Agriculture what steps have been taken towards the grading of English tomatoes; and whether he is satisfied with the progress in this matter?
§ Dr. ADDISONA scheme for the grading and marking of tomatoes in England and Wales in association with the National Mark was introduced in the spring of 1929 and has now been in operation for two seasons. There are 89 commercial growers who are authorised packers in the scheme. The progress made in the first two seasons has been encouraging and National Mark standardised packs of home-grown tomatoes are now widely recognised in the wholesale markets and by the retail trade. I look forward with confidence to further progress in the future.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSIs the right hon. Gentleman satisfied that in their further distribution these products are not mixed up in any way with foreign stuffs?
§ Mr. MARLEYI should like to know whether there is any special mark for election tomatoes?
§ Dr. ADDISONIf the hon. Member for Torquay (Mr. Williams) has any evidence of a mixture of the kind he suggests and will give it to me, I will look into the matter.
§ Captain GUNSTONMay I ask whether the marking scheme has resulted in increased prices to the producer?
§ Dr. ADDISONIt has resulted in steadier and better prices to the producer.