§ 38. Mr. STUARTasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware of the dissatisfaction that exists among Scottish barley growers, especially in the northern and north-eastern counties, regarding the present condition of the market for barley for distilling purposes; and what action he proposes to take in the matter?
§ Sir G. COLLINSThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. As regards the second part. I have to-day constituted a committee representing farmers, distillers and grain merchants, with an independent chairman in order to ascertain all the facts relating to this subject and to obtain guidance as to the steps, if any, that can be taken to meet the situation in the way most advantageous to all the parties concerned. The committee's terms of reference are to inquire into and report upon the supply of and demand for Scottish barley for use by Scottish distilleries, and to make recommendations regarding the steps, if any, that can be taken by the growers and distillers concerned for the purpose 357 of improving the quality and condition and methods of sale of such barley so as to facilitate its use by such distilleries.
§ Mr. STUARTWhen is the committee likely to meet?
§ Sir G. COLLINSI hope very shortly.