§ 31. Captain PETER MACDONALDasked the Minister of Agriculture whether his attention has been called to the difficulties of farmers in obtaining short-term credits from their banks secured on crops or livestock which they could produce with that assistance; and whether he will consider the desirability of extending agricultural credit legislation to cover such loans?
§ Sir J. GILMOURThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. In reply to the second part, I would call the attention of my hon. and gallant Friend to the Agricultural Credits Act, 1928, Part II of which provides facilities enabling farmers to create a charge on their crops, stock and other agricultural assets for the purpose of obtaining credit from their banks.
§ Captain MACDONALDIs the Minister aware that the banks will not accept these crops and livestock as security against credits?
§ Sir J. GILMOURI think they do in some cases.
§ Captain MACDONALDWhy should not the Act be carried out to the extent that was proposed in order to extend these opportunities to all farmers?
§ Brigadier-General CLIFTON BROWNIn view of the unsatisfactory condition of this matter, would the Minister consider the recommendation of the Central Landowners' Association on the subject, if I send him a copy of it?
§ Sir J. GILMOURYes, Sir.