HC Deb 28 June 1937 vol 325 cc1626-7
25. Mr. James Griffiths

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in view of the report of the Milk Marketing Board that under the provisions of their cheap milk scheme in the Rhondda the consumption of milk by those benefiting under the scheme increased 43 per cent., he will take steps to extend the scheme to other areas in Wales?

Mr. W. S. Morrison

The schemes for the supply of cheap milk in the Special Areas have been inaugurated for experimental purposes by the Milk Marketing Board, with the co-operation of local distributors and of the local authorities concerned, and with financial assistance from the Commissioner for the Special Areas. I understand that the board are of opinion that fuller information as to the working of the present schemes is desirable before any question of further action along these lines could be considered.

Mr. Griffiths

In view of the undoubted success of this scheme, will the right hon. Gentleman represent to the Milk Marketing Board the desirability of applying it to other districts in the Special Areas as quickly as possible?

Mr. Morrison

The matter will be kept under review.

Mr. George Griffiths

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider applying it also to the semi-distressed areas, of which there are a good many?

Mr. Leach

Will the Minister say what it is that causes the board to have the slightest doubt about the success of this scheme?

Mr. Morrison

There are many matters involved in the first place, it is necessary to secure the co-operation of the local authorities and of the local distributors, and that has contributed to the success of the scheme; and, in the second place, it is not quite clear yet from the figures whether the increase of 43 per cent. does mean a gain to the board, in view of the reduction of price over the original 100 per cent.

Mr. J. Griffiths

Has not the chairman of the board reported that they, as a board, are satisfied that the scheme is a success: and is any difficulty being placed by any local authority in the way of the board applying the scheme?

Mr. Morrison

So far as I know, none.

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