HC Deb 27 October 1947 vol 443 c507
50. Sir W. Smithers

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he will make a statement concerning the ploughing back of part of a crop of buckwheat in Suffolk, valued at £2,640; and who bears the loss.

The Minister of Agriculture (Mr. Thomas Williams)

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply that I gave to the hon. Member for the University of London (Sir E. Graham-Little) on 24th October. I am not aware of the grounds for the statement that the crop was valued at £2,640, but any loss sustained will be borne by the grower.

Sir W. Smithers

Is there any appeal against ridiculous decisions by the agricultural executive committees which result in losses to the farmer over which he has no control—the decision may be against his advice—and has the farmer any means of recovering those losses?

Mr. Williams

This happens to be sub judice. The case will ultimately go to the court and the farmer will have ample opportunity of stating his own case.

Sir W. Smithers

May I ask what kind of court?

Mr. Williams

A police court.