HC Deb 22 February 1937 vol 320 c1620
14. Mr. Sexton

asked the Minister of Agriculture what further action has been taken by the Milk Marketing Board in the case of William Mitcheson, of Burnhope Flatts farm, Burnhope, County Durham, whose three cows were sold for 7s. under a county court order; and whether he will institute an inquiry into the whole circumstances under Section 15 (2) of the Agricultural Marketing Act, 1931?

The Minister of Agriculture (Mr. W. S. Morrison)

I am informed that the Milk Marketing Board are taking further action under the procedure authorised by rules of the court for the recovery of the amount due from Mr. Mitcheson. With regard to the second part of the question, I am advised that the matter is not one appropriate for investigation by an Agricultural Marketing Reorganisation Commission under the provisions of Section 15 (2) of the Agricultural Marketing Act, 1931.

Mr. Sexton

Will the right hon. Gentleman use his influence with the Milk Marketing Board to use their clemency in this case, as the man, I believe, is not unreasonable in the matter?

Mr. Morrison

The hon. Member will appreciate that in connection with these levies, the board must operate justly between all the producers, those who pay and those who do not.

Mr. T. Williams

Will the right hon. Gentleman have this Section 15 (2) looked into, to see whether or not the Milk Marketing Board have the power to take the steps which they have taken quite recently?

Mr. Morrison

Yes, Sir.