27. Mr. De la Bèreasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he can now make some statement regarding the proposal to put into operation a price insurance scheme for primary productive produce by the home producers of this country?
§ 30. Mr. Henderson Stewartasked the Minister of Agriculture what progress has been made in the negotiations with representatives of the agricultural industry begun three months ago; and when he expects to be ready to announce a stable policy which will ensure adequate production of foodstuffs with remunerative returns to farmers and workers?
§ Sir R. Dorman-SmithDetailed discussions have taken place with representatives of the National Farmers' Unions on the proposals which they had submitted to the Government in regard to price insurance and other aspects of agricultural policy. I have also had discussions with representatives of the landowners and the workers' unions. The Government are now considering the proposals which they will submit to Parliament in the light of these discussions.
Mr. De la BèreCan my right hon. and gallant Friend give some indication as 771 to when these proposals are likely to be put before Parliament, because the uncertainty is driving farmers almost to despair?
§ Sir R. Dorman-SmithAs soon as possible.
§ Mr. Henderson StewartHas the stage that has been reached given satisfaction to the farmers and to the workers?
§ Sir R. Dorman-SmithI would not like to venture an opinion on that.
§ Mr. BoothbyWould my right hon. and gallant Friend set a precedent by endeavouring to reduce the period of gestation between the birth of an idea and the fulfilment of legislation in this House?