50. Mr. De la Bèreasked the Minister of Agriculture whether, since some farmers are reducing their dairy herds owing to the uncertainty of milk prices, the Government will expedite their announcement for future milk prices.; and whether, in future, they will abolish the system of bi-annual retrospective discussions with a view to ensuring that no decreases in milk supply take place?
Mr. HudsonI am not at present in a position to add anything to the statement concerning milk prices which was included in the recent general announcement on agricultural prices for 1942–43.
Mr. De la BèreIs not my right hon. Friend aware that an all-round increase in milk prices of 4d. a gallon is required? Further, is he aware that it is no good fixing prices after the herds have been reduced, and that it must be done beforehand? Will he answer the second 802 part of my Question? Why always go into the thing after the real mischief has been caused?
Mr. De la BèreWhy persist in the policy of too little and too late? This is not a joking matter, it is deadly serious.