§ 48. Mr. Higgsasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he is satisfied that the acreage basis is the best way of subsidising potato growers; 228 and whether he will consider the alternative method of paying on the tonnage produced?
Major Lloyd GeorgeYes, Sir. The introduction of the acreage payment was accompanied by a corresponding reduction in the price per ton. It has the advantage of providing an early cash advance which is of great benefit to growers who may be unable to market their crop until late in the season. It also provides an encouragement to growers who may be unable to obtain an average yield. At the same time it enables occupiers of good potato-growing land to obtain remunerative returns for their crops.
§ Mr. HiggsIs the Parliamentary Secretary aware that some of last year's crops of potatoes have not been lifted; that the growers have received £10 per acre; and that the potatoes are now being ploughed in? Does he consider that, if payment were made on a basis of production, it would stop that ramp?
Major Lloyd GeorgeI am not aware of the fact to which my hon. Friend refers. Perhaps he will be good enough to let me have particulars. I have no information of the character which he has just stated. With regard to the question of stopping the ramp, the fact is that we are most anxious to encourage the growing of all food crops, even in places which are not as favourable as the ground which is usually used.