HC Deb 11 December 1941 vol 376 cc1671-2
51. Dr. Russell Thomas

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he has any statement to make in regard to the postwar outlook of British agriculture?

Mr. Hudson

I am unable to add to the reply I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for Evesham (Mr. De la Bère) on 11th September.

Dr. Thomas

Will my right hon. Friend besides bearing in mind improved marketing methods and the like, examine the proposition that an abundance of purchasing power in the pockets of the people in order that they can buy a plentitude of meat, vegetables, eggs, milk and butter at the lowest possible price would do more to relieve post-war British agriculture than all the confused and dismal economics of which my right hon. Friend has unburdened himself recently?

Mr. Loftus

Has my right hon. Friend seen the statement on future policy made by his colleague the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department, and does he repudiate it?

Mr. Snadden

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether it is his intention to consult practical opinion before formulating his plans, or will plans be adopted and then submitted to the representative organisations as being final and unalterable?