HC Deb 16 March 1933 vol 275 cc2138-9
81. Sir JOSEPH LAMB

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the statement broadcast by the Danish Finance Minister in respect to recent commercial negotiations between Denmark and this country; whether he is aware of the anxiety entertained by British farmers as to the effect of such negotiations upon the operation of schemes under the Agricultural Marketing Act; and whether he can give any assurance that no commitments will be entered into with foreign countries which will prevent the expansion of home production of food products regulated by schemes under the Agricultural Marketing Act?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

My attention has been drawn to the statement to which my hon. Friend refers. I can assure him that in the trade negotiations with foreign countries I am in constant touch with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries.

Sir J. LAMB

Is the President of the Board of Trade not aware that there is a great deal of apprehension among agriculturists generally with regard to this matter?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I hope that agriculturists generally know my right hon. Friend so well that they can entrust their interests to him.