§ 37 and 38. Major McCallumasked the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) when he expects to receive the report of the Committee he appointed last year, under the chairmanship of Lord Balfour of Burleigh, to inquire into the hill sheep farming industry in Scotland; and whether the report will be made available to hon. Members at an early date;
(2), whether he is aware that, while the hill sheep farmers of the Highlands appreciate the steps taken by the Government to help them over their difficulties by financial subsidies such as those granted each year since 1940, they feel this short-term policy of subsidies should be replaced by a long-term policy which would enable farmers to plan ahead with confidence; and whether he will take action on these lines to guarantee them a reasonable market for their produce?
Mr. ChapmanMy right hon. Frie1nd understands that the Hill Sheep Committee have practically completed the hearing of evidence but that it may be some time before they are in a position to report. Until he has received their recommendations he cannot make any statement as to the long-term measures which may be practicable and desirable to improve the position of hill sheep farming in Scotland. But my right hon. Friend fully agrees with my hon. and gallant Friend on the desirability of a long-term policy.
§ Major McCallumIs the Minister aware that the issue of this Report is awaited in the Highlands of Scotland even more keenly than elsewhere, and may I ask that it should not be too long delayed?
Mr. ChapmanYes, sir. My right hon. Friend would welcome this Report at the earliest possible moment.
§ Mr. SnaddenIs it not a fact that the Committee is considering only post-war problems?
Mr. ChapmanThe remit of Lord Balfour of Burleigh's Committee asked in 27 effect for an indication of the basis on which a long-term policy might be framed.