57. Mr. BOOTHBY asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he can now state what is the Government's policy with regard to oats?
§ Sir G. COLLINSAs my hon. Friend is no doubt aware, the Import Duties Advisory Committee has under consideration an application for an increased duty on oats and oat products imported from foreign countries, and has invited representations to be made to it by parties interested. Pending the recommendation of that committee, I cannot make any statement on the question of policy.
§ Mr. BOOTHBYIn view of the fact that this is a, matter of vital importance to Scottish agriculture and that the Government have had well over a year to consider it, does not the right hon. Gentleman think that the Government might reach a conclusion apart from the Import Duties Advisory Committee?
§ Sir G. COLLINSThe Import Duties Advisory Committee was set up for the express purpose of considering these matters, and until it has reported I am unable to deal with the matter.