§ 50. Mr. T. Reidasked the Minister of Agriculture what action he proposes to take on the Lucas Committee's suggestions for the distribution of agricultural products with a view to reduction of costs.
§ Mr. T. WilliamsThe Committee were not charged with the duty of inquiring into wholesale and retail distribution, although inevitably a number of their recommendations touch upon those subjects. These and other recommendations are now under consideration by the Government.
§ Mr. AustinIn view of the great hardship suffered by the working class in not being able to obtain vegetables last summer, will my right hon. Friend see to it that, in the forthcoming season, vegetables and other products covered by this Committee's report will be controlled, with a view to their being available to the working class at reasonable prices?
§ Mr. WilliamsI have already said that these recommendations are under consideration.
§ 53. Mr. Vernon Bartlettasked the Minister of Agriculture when he will be able to state the Government's plans in connection with the Lucas Committee's Report on the working of the Agricultural Marketing Acts.
§ 69. Mr. Turtonasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he has now considered the Report of the Lucas Committee; and whether it is proposed to take any action thereon.
§ Mr. T. WilliamsThe Secretary of State for Scotland and I are considering in consultation with our colleagues the important recommendations contained in this Report, but I cannot say yet when I shall be able to make a statement.
§ Mr. BartlettWill my right hon. Friend bear in mind that the Report does call attention to conditions which are very disheartening both to producers and consumers, and will he do all he can to hasten a decision?
§ Mr. WilliamsYes.
§ Mr. TurtonWill the right hon. Gentleman make it clear that he dissociates himself from the prejudice against marketing boards displayed in the Report?
§ Mr. WilliamsI should like to withhold judgment on that.