HC Deb 13 February 1939 vol 343 cc1364-5
59. Sir P. Hurd

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that New Zealand spends £30,000 and Argentina £40,000 a year to advertise their food products, as marketed in this country under State control; and whether, seeing the success of this form of publicity, he will co-operate with British producers and traders, possibly on the £ for £ basis, for the advertising of properly graded British produce?

Sir R. Dorman-Smith

Although I have no precise information on the subject, I am aware that considerable sums are spent for the purposes mentioned by my hon. Friend in the first part of his question. Steps are already taken to advertise British produce that has been graded under the various National Mark Schemes, and, while the sums available for this purpose are limited, I shall be happy to consider any suggestions for further co-operation.

Sir P. Hurd

Are the sums to which the Minister refers Government sums, or trade sums?

Sir R. Dorman-Smith

I think they are Government sums.