§ 1. Captain McEwen(for Mr. Snadden) asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware of the widespread discontent in Scotland in connection with the Animal Rationing Scheme, because of the fact that sales of cereals effected prior to 1st February, 1941, are deprived of the right to earn ration coupons even when they pass from surplus to deficit range; that an immediate reduction in the milk of herds has resulted; and what steps he proposes to take to remedy this injustice?
§ The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. T. Johnston)May I remind my hon. Friend that the Animal Rationing Scheme was devised to ensure a fair distribution in the national interest of the limited supplies of feeding stuffs available? Sales of cereals before 1st February do not confer a right to issue of coupons as the scheme assumes that in cases such as those referred to by the hon. Member the farmer was able to obtain all his current requirements before that date under the arrangements then prevailing. In cases where sales before 1st February have left farmers without the necessary feeding resources the scheme provides that the Agricultural Executive Committee will, on appeal, arrange for the issue of the appropriate coupons where such action is justified. Coupons are being issued in such cases with the utmost expedition.
§ Mr. R. GibsonIs my right hon. Friend aware that straw from cereals, which before the war was being sold by farmers at 15s. per ton, is now being held up by them for £5 per ton, although it is urgently required for paper making in Scotland? Will he look into that matter?
§ Mr. JohnstonThat is obviously another question.