§ 38. Sir Percy Hurdasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that exorbitant prices are being demanded for vegetable seeds for next season's crop; and what steps are being taken to ensure adequate supplies at reasonable prices for allotment holders and others?
§ The Minister of Agriculture (Mr. R. S. Hudson)Now that many of our normal sources of supply of vegetable seeds are cut off, some increase in price is inevitable, but I am keeping the matter under close review and, up to the present, I have no evidence that the trade generally are charging unreasonably high prices. A system of strict supervision of prices, including those of packet seed, is being instituted for the forthcoming season.
§ Sir P. HurdIs the Minister satisfied that allotment holders will get an ample supply of seeds at reasonable prices?
§ Mr. HudsonYes, Sir, if they take advantage of facilities that exist. They should apply to their allotment society, or through the National Allotmentholders' Society.
§ Mr. SorensenSeeing that a shortage of supply in other directions has not meant increases in price, why should a shortage of seeds be followed by an increase in price?
§ Mr. HudsonWe used to draw seeds from near sources like Holland and France, but now we have to get them from distant sources like Australia and New Zealand.
§ Mr. LawsonCould not any allotment holder tell the Minister that that reason is absurd?
§ Mr. Neil MacleanWhy are these facilities confined to allotment holders who are members of allotment associations? What about the large number who are not members?
§ Mr. HudsonThey ought to join.
§ Mr. MacleanThey may have gardens and not be recognised as allotment holders.