HC Deb 05 February 1952 vol 495 cc785-6
24. Mr. M. MacMillan

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what changes in agricultural policy for Scotland he proposes to make in the near future

Mr. Snadden

Any change in agricultural policy will be announced in due course after the annual price review. The hon. Member will, however, have seen the statement made yesterday by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries announcing an immediate scheme to encourage increased cropping during the present year.

Mr. MacMillan

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that hon. Members on this side of the House are very much comforted and reassured by the hon. Gentleman's speech to the National Farmers' Union in Scotland stating that they need not fear any disturbance of the policy of the late Government for some years to come?

Mr. Malcolm MacPherson

Will the hon. Gentleman bear in mind, in making any announcement, the desirability of giving the information, in the first place, to this House?