HC Deb 04 April 1933 vol 276 cc1556-7
8. Sir I. MACPHERSON

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he has given further consideration to the representations made to him by the agricultural deputation from Scotland on the questions of oats; and if he has any statement to make?

Mr. SKELTON

My right hon. Friend has given the closest and most anxious consideration to the representations made to him. As the right hon. Baronet knows, an application which has recently been revised, for an additional duty on oats and also oat products is before the Import Duties Advisory Committee and no announcement has yet been made by them. In these circumstances, my right hon. Friend is not in a position to make any statement.

Sir I. MACPHERSON

Has my hon. Friend done anything with regard to the Canadian side of it; has he made any representations with regard to the quota?

Mr. SKELTON

I do not think that that question arises.

Sir I. MACPHERSON

Has the right hon. Gentleman read my question? I asked about two points which were raised by the delegation—first, an import duty, and second, a quota. I asked for information about both.

Mr. SKELTON

I apologise to the right hon. and learned Gentleman. I certainly would not be in a position to make any statement with regard to any negotiations that may be taking place with the Canadian Government, and no definite statement can be made with regard to their conclusions.

Sir I. MACPHERSON

Meanwhile, is the hon. Gentleman aware that farm labourers in Scotland are being asked to accept greatly reduced wages?

Mr. SKELTON

I am well aware, and so is my right hon. Friend, of the serious position of oats farming, and we have both made clear to the House and to those who have come to see us that all possible measures of dealing with it are under consideration.

Mr. BOOTHBY

Will the hon. Gentleman state whether the Government propose to make representations to the Import Duties Advisory Committee in order to try and expedite their decision?

Mr. SKELTON

My hon. Friend knows very well that it is not the function of the Government to make representations to the Advisory Committee.