56. Mr. De la Bèreasked the Minister of Agriculture when he will be in a position to make a pronouncement as to the place British agriculture is to take in the 1561 national economy; and what is to be the livestock target for the next five years.
§ Mr. T. WilliamsThe Government's objective for British agriculture was announced in my statement in this House on 15th November last. With regard to the second part of the Question, no precise target can be set for the next five years, but I hope that the livestock population will eventually exceed the pre-war figure.
Mr. De la BèreDoes not the right hon. Gentleman realise that the agricultural industry does not know where it stands in the national economy? It does not know where it is today. Does not the right hon. Gentleman further know that it is no good saying, "You must hope "; and that something must be done about this question of the target for livestock? It is no good hoping. Hoping will not cure the difficulties.
§ Mr. WilliamsI have a much greater appreciation of the intelligence of the farming population than my hon. Friend.
Mr. De la BèreIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that I have the greatest regard for the farmers, and that that is why, day in and day out, I try to do something to assist them, rather than rely on hope?