73. Marquess of CLYDESDALEasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will adjust the provisions under the Milk Marketing Board as applied to Scotland in order to give more considerate treatment to producer-retailers in Scotland, in view of the fact that in many cases they are being considerably impoverished by the transport levy while other producers are profiting thereby?
§ Sir G. COLLINSI have no authority to amend the provisions of the Scottish Milk Marketing Scheme except on consideration of reports by the Committee of Investigation for Scotland under Section 9 of the Agricultural Marketing Act, 1931. Complaints made by level producers, many of whom are producer-retailers, have been referred by me to that committee whose report has been received to-day and is now under consideration. The levy paid by farmers who are producer-retailers does not include any charge for the transport of milk.
Duchess of ATHOLLIn view of the great interest attached to this question in all parts of Scotland, will the right hon. Gentleman publish the report of the Investigating Committee?
§ Sir G. COLLINSThat matter is under consideration.