HC Deb 10 March 1936 vol 309 cc1941-2
10. Mr. BOOTHBY

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will take steps to ensure that there shall be close and effective co-operation between his Department and the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries in designing and executing agricultural policy?

Sir G. COLLINS

There is at present the closest possible co-operation between the Agricultural Departments of the United Kingdom in all matters of mutual interest and no further steps of the nature indicated are necessary.

Mr. BOOTHBY

Does the right hon. Gentleman really think that the policy now being pursued by the Ministry of Agriculture is satisfactory from the Scottish point of view?

Sir G. COLLINS

Yes, Sir.

Mr. H. G. WILLIAMS

Does the right hon. Gentleman think it is satisfactory that employment in agriculture should continue to decline?

Sir R. W. SMITH

Has the right hon. Gentletman brought to the notice of his colleague in his Cabinet the serious and inequitable position of the cereal producers in Scotland at the present time

Sir G. COLLINS

My colleague in the Government is well aware of the situation in Scotland so far as oat production is concerned.

Sir R. W. SMITH

But what action is being taken?

11. 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. COLLINS

No, Sir, I regret I am unable to add anything to the answer which I gave to my hon. Friend's question on 18th February last.

Mr. BOOTHBY

Is the Secretary of State aware that the price of oats in Scotland is worse than ever before? How long have we to wait before he announces a new policy?

Sir G. COLLINS

There are several questions on this subject, and I am sure the hon. Member is well aware of the difficulties which confront a Minister in dealing with this difficult problem. I can assure him that the matter is still under our consideration.

Mr. H. G. WILLIAMS

Has the right hon. Gentleman approached the Canadian Government on the matter?

Mr. BOOTHBY

I beg to give notice that I will raise this matter on the Adjournment.