23. Mr. HASLAMasked the Minister of Agriculture if, in view of a marketing scheme for eggs being in contemplation and the increasing difficulties of the home producer owing to the present low prices, while the diminution of imported eggs which was satisfactory last year is less marked in the first four months of this year, he will consider regulating imported supplies at the earliest possible date?
§ Mr. ELLIOTI would refer my hon. Friend to the announcement I made on 15th March last, copy of which I am 562 sending him, regarding the Government's decision as to the regulation of imports of eggs in shell during the six months 15th March to 14th September. The proposal has been accepted by 12 of the countries concerned representing 76 per cent. of the supplies.
§ Sir JOSEPH LAMBCan my right hon. Friend say when he will probably receive the report of the Egg Marketing Board?
§ Mr. ELLIOTI am afraid that I cannot give a date when the report of the Reorganisation Commission will be received.
§ Mr. MACQUISTENAre the egg producers in this country satisfied, although the other countries seem to be?
§ Mr. ELLIOTI do not think that the other 12 countries are in any way satisfied, as my hon. and learned Friend would find out if he had to negotiate with them.