HC Deb 03 February 1944 vol 396 cc1396-7
51. Mr. Driberg

asked the Minister of Agriculture if it is proposed to formulate and make public the Government's long-term policy for agriculture as soon as possible after the conclusion of the present discussions with the industry or to wait until after the end of the war in Europe.

Mr. Hudson

As I stated on 28th October the discussions will be concerned with policy both in the transitional period and in the subsequent period; they will be exploratory and confidential and reports will be made from time to time to the War Cabinet on their progress. They will have to cover a wide field and I cannot say when it may be possible to make announcements on the various aspects of the problem.

Mr. Driberg

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that one phrase which he used in his speech in the recent Debate caused some disquiet by suggesting that the formulation of policy would not take place until after the war; and will it not be necessary to relate this policy to the Government's general reconstruction and planning proposals which are to be discussed, we hope, this Session?

Mr. Hudson

I think my hon. Friend had better let me see how I get on with the discussions before pressing me too far.