§ 34. Sir IAN MACPHERSONasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he has considered the representations from the National Farmers' Union of Scotland with regard to the importation of Spanish early potatoes; and what action he proposes to take?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for SCOTLAND (Sir Godfrey Collins)The matter to which my right hon. and learned Friend refers is under the immediate consideration of the Government and it is hoped that a statement on the subject will be made at an early date.
§ Sir I. MACPHERSONMay I ask my right hon. Friend whether he will not remember that this is a purely luxury production, and will he see to it that the interests of the home producer are not endangered?
§ Sir G. COLLINSI can assure my right hon. and learned Friend that all those relevant matters will be taken into consideration.
§ Mr. LAMBERTWill the right hon. Gentleman consult with his colleague the Minister of Agriculture in England, as this affects British growers as well?
§ Sir G. COLLINSNegotiations are being carried out by the Ministry of Agriculture in conjunction with the Scottish Department.
§ Mr. CHARLES WILLIAMSCould not we have these decisions made earlier in the year so that our West Country crops can be got in earlier and increase the amount?