§ 59. Mr. De la Bereasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is now in a position to declare the Government's policy in connection with the future of the members of the agricultural committees of the county councils; and, in particular, if it is the Government's intention to co-opt or nominate them to the new committees which are to take the place of the W.A.E.C.s.
§ Mr. T. WilliamsNo, Sir. These matters will be the subject of discussions with the County Councils Association in the near future.
Mr. De la BèreAre we to banish from our minds the disturbing thought that these people will act as the agents of the Government and there will be no independent body left in the country?
§ Mr. WilliamsThe hon. Gentleman can banish from his mind any apprehension that he might hold with regard to our future executive committees.
Mr. De la BèreCan the Minister say whether they are to be Government agents? I want to know whether there is to be any independent body left in the country. It is all-important. [HON. MEMBERS: " Answer."] The Minister dare not give the answer.
§ Mr. WilliamsIf the hon. Member will refer to my statement of 15th April he will see exactly what was intended.