§ 48. Brigadier Raynerasked the Minister of Agriculture if he is aware of the present difficulties of farmers in disposing of barley; and what arrangements he has made to meet his undertakings relating to guaranteed prices and assured markets contained in the Agriculture Act, in view of the prospect that barley will continue to be a glut on the market.
The Minister of Agriculture (Mr. Thomas Williams)I understand that some farmers are finding it difficult to sell their barley for malting, but the Ministry of Food are already buying 29 through approved merchants large quantities at the guaranteed price and are ready to accept all millable and potentially millable barley that may be offered to them. No further arrangements to meet undertakings under the Agriculture Act are therefore needed.
§ Mr. DonnerCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether barley is still being imported into this country?