§ 57. Mr. Yorkasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he proposes to issue an order authorising the issue of directions for cropping for the 1948–49 season.
§ Mr. T. WilliamsI would refer the hon. and gallant Member to my reply of 21st June to my hon. Friend the Member for Lowestoft (Mr. Edward Evans).
§ Mr. YorkAre we to take it that in view of the satisfactory outcome of this season's cropping no directions are to be issued?
§ Mr. WilliamsIn the reply referred to, I said:
They do not propose to seek emergency powers to direct farmers to grow specific crops.—[OFFICIAL REPORT, 21st June, 1948; Vol. 452, c. 107.]
§ Mr. YorkWill the right hon. Gentleman make it clear that the rumours going around about this subject are unfounded?
§ Mr. WilliamsMy reply meant entirely what it said.
§ Mr. Joynson-HicksWill the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that he will not exercise any of his existing policy regulation powers with regard to compulsory crops?
§ Mr. WilliamsI have already given that assurance about half a dozen times.