§ 24. Mr. THORNEasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that the Potato Marketing Board has been awarded a judgment of £50 against a Kent farmer in respect of his excess acreage for 1934; how many times the Potato Marketing Board have taken action against farmers on account of cultivating excess acreage of potatoes; and whether, in view of the fact that potatoes are sold retail in London at per pound, he will discourage further action by the Potato Marketing Board likely to restrict production?
§ Mr. ELLIOTI am aware of the judgment referred to. I am informed by the Potato Marketing Board that they have taken action to recover unpaid excess acreage levies in 260 cases since the inception of the scheme in December, 1933. As to the last part of the question, the area planted with potatoes in 1935 allows scope for an increase of 22 per cent. in the total acreage which may be planted without any excess acreage levy, though individual producers who are now growing potatoes up to their basic maximum would be liable if they desired to increase their acreage.
§ Mr. THORNEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware of the shortage of potatoes and the fact that the demand is at present bigger than the supply; and will he advise the farmers in Lincolnshire to unload some of their potatoes on the market?
§ Mr. ELLIOTThe unloading just now, I am advised, is very heavy.