§ 55. Mr. Johnstonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware of the serious plight of many sheep farmers in Scotland and that a large proportion of last year's wool clip has not yet been marketed; whether there is any prospect of this year's clip being marketed; whether, in view of the steep fall in mutton and lamb prices, he will state how far this fall has been conveyed to consumers' prices; and what steps he proposes to take to ensure conditions in which sheep farming can be maintained as an agricultural occupation?
Mr. WedderburnI am aware that the prices of fat sheep and lambs have fallen during recent months, and that while the whole of the 1936 wool clip was cleared at good prices early in 1937, the bulk of the 1937 clip has not yet been sold. I regret that I am unable to make any forecast of the prospects for the sale of wool during this year. Reductions in retail prices of home mutton and lamb have not reflected the fall in market prices; in the same way the rise in retail prices last year did not reflect the substantial rise in market prices. In reply to the last part of the question, my right hon. Friend has recently discussed the situation with farmers' representatives. The Government have no control over most of the factors which affect the prices of home-produced sheep and wool, but, in conjunction with the Minister of Agriculture, my right hon. Friend is in consultation with the representatives of the Dominions about supplies. Reference to these consultations has already been made in previous replies in the House, and I am not at present in a position to give any further information.
§ Mr. JohnstonCan the Under-Secretary add to his answer some indication of what is going to happen if in addition to the bulk of last year's wool clip, not yet marketed, there is added this year's wool clip? What will be the effect on the sheep farming community in Scotland?