HC Deb 03 March 1930 vol 236 cc30-2
54. Mr. HANNON

asked the Minister of Agriculture if his attention has been called to the success of the co-operative agricultural society known as Oxford Farmers, Limited, during the past year; whether the society has received any support from the Ministry of Agriculture; and if he is prepared to encourage the formation of similar co-operative agricultural societies in other parts of the country?

The MINISTER of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Noel Buxton)

I have been gratified to watch the progress of the society referred to by the hon. Member. The society has not sought or received, nor has it appeared to need, any Government support. In 1925, following inquiries in 1924, my Department issued a Report on the activities of societies engaged in the co-operative purchase of agricultural requisites in England and Wales, from which it was evident that this movement was firmly established. Since that date, there has been continued progress, and there are few parts of the country that are not covered by the activities of such societies.

Mr. HANNON

Does the Ministry of Agriculture now employ any officers in connection with the organisation of cooperative agricultural societies of the kind indicated in my question?

Mr. BUXTON

No, this kind of society does not at present require assistance of the kind indicated. A very full report was made on their activities, and they are now very well established on their own footing.

Mr. HANNON

Is the right hon. Gentleman anxious to encourage the development of agricultural co-operation among farmers by Government assistance?

Mr. BUXTON

Yes, we encourage it in every possible way.

57. Viscount ELMLEY

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether, seeing that this is the only country of importance where legislation does not exist for the encouragement and protection of farmers who co-operate in buying feeding-stuffs, fertilisers, farm implements, etc., and in selling their agricultural products, he will do everything possible to promote similar arrangements in this country?

Mr. N. BUXTON

I would refer the Noble Lord to the reply which I gave to him on the 17th February. I am always anxious to do everything in my power to promote agricultural co-operation, and if the Noble Lord has any suggestions to make regarding measures for its encouragement and protection I should be glad if he would communicate them to me.

Viscount ELMLEY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that until something along these lines is done, the agricultural industry is bound to remain to a certain extent in the hands of middlemen, and the prices of agricultural produce will to that extent be affected?