§ 39. Mr. R. Aclandasked the Minister of Agriculture whether His Majesty's Government contemplate an agricultural policy of insuring prices at a level higher than that now ruling, equal to that now ruling, or lower than that now ruling?
§ Mr. RamsbothamThe review of the agricultural situation to which my right hon. Friend referred in his announcement on 22nd December last, is still proceeding. My right hon. Friends the Secretary of State for Scotland and the Minister of Agriculture hope to begin discussions with the English and Scottish National Farmers' Unions at a very early date. Pending those discussions it is not possible to make a further statement.
§ Mr. AclandDoes that mean that we are to have no guidance at all on those points in the Debate on agriculture which is to take place after half-past seven to-morrow?
§ Mr. RamsbothamThe answer means what I have said, that there are discussions and that I cannot make a further statement.
§ Mr. T. WilliamsWill it be possible for the new Minister of Agriculture to meet any deputations before he prepares his policy?
§ Mr. J. MorganDoes the answer also mean that the review will include the poultry and the milk situation?
§ Mr. RamsbothamI cannot make a further statement. There will be a discussion.