HC Deb 27 January 1930 vol 234 cc603-4
51. Mr. MORLEY

asked the Minister of Agriculture when he proposes to take steps to set up a national distribution board to lessen the cost and more efficiently control the marketing of agricultural produce in this country?

Mr. N. BUXTON

The problem of marketing organisation is best approached on commodity lines and generally through standardisation schemes, such as those already adopted under the National Mark for eggs, fruit, etc., and others which I hope to introduce shortly. These, in themselves, operate to increase the efficiency and, therefore, reduce the cost of distribution.

Mr. MORLEY

Has the right hon. Gentleman's attention been called to the American Federal Farm Board, and would not an organisation of similar character be practicable and useful in this country?

Mr. BUXTON

I have studied that matter carefully. If the hon. Gentleman has any definite suggestions to make, I hope that he will send them to me.