HC Deb 20 July 1938 vol 338 cc2204-6
90. Mr. Johnston

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware of the drop in lamb prices of 15s. per head at St. Boswell's market; that at Inverness wool fair there is a drop of 50 per cent. in wool prices and that a large proportion of last year's wool clip is not yet marketed; and whether he intends to make any statement before the Adjournment as to the Government's intentions towards the sheep-farming industry?

The Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Wedderburn)

I am aware that the average price of lambs sold at St. Boswell's market on 14th July was reported to be 15s. 7d. per head less than the average price at the corresponding sale last year and that prices at Inverness wool fair on 15th July were reported to be 50 per cent, less than last year's prices. The right hon. Gentleman is, no doubt, aware that the prices of both lambs and wool at this time last year were exceptionally good. While a proportion of last year's wool clip may not yet be sold it is noted that at the Perth wool sales on 14th July there was a keen demand and that almost a complete clearance was effected. As regards the general position of the sheep-farming industry, I would refer to the statement made in the House on 13th July by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries. I regret that I am not meantime in a position to make any further statement on the subject.

Mr. Johnston

Is the Under-Secretary aware that the statement of July to which he referred offers no hope whatever to the sheep farming industry; and is he aware that if he allows this industry to collapse in Scotland there will be very serious economic repercussions? Cannot he say something more before the end of the Session than informal wishes which he hands out?

Mr. Wedderburn

The statement of the Secretary of State indicated that attempts were being made to regulate imports from the Dominions more strictly than before.

Sir A. Sinclair

Is the Under-Secretary aware that there is widespread alarm about the situation in the sheep farming industry all over Scotland, and will not he or the Secretary of State take some opportunity to make a further statement before the House rises?

Mr. Wedderburn

I am certainly aware of the anxiety which has existed for some time as we have received a great many representations on the subject. It has already been said that the Secretary of State is in consultation with the Dominions with the view of some further regulation of imports into this country.

Major Braithwaite

Is the Under-Secretary aware that the situation in England is even more precarious than the situation in Scotland?

Mr. Kirkwood

Nonsense.

Mr. De la Bére

Is the hon. Member aware of the precarious position in the Vale of Evesham?