49. Mr. De la Bèreasked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in connection with long-distance transport charges throughout the country, he will make representations to the Transport Commission to enable some help to be given to 2551 horticulturists, especially fruit and vegetable growers, in the instances where, with the increased road-haulage charges, the cost of transport is higher than the price obtained for the commodities grown.
§ 55. Brigadier R. Medlicottasked the Minister of Agriculture if he will consult with the British Transport Commission with a view to fixing reduced scales of charges for the long-distance transport of fruit and vegetables.
§ Sir T. DugdaleThe Transport Act, 1947, provides adequate machinery for considering representations about charges and I do not think it would be appropriate for me to approach the Commission.
Mr. De la BèreHow can a producer continue to produce food for which he does not get as much as he has to pay by way of transport charges? Surely my right hon. and gallant Friend will energetically set about trying to help these people.
§ Mr. SpeakerThat sounded more like an exhortation than a question.
§ Mr. Arthur LewisWill the Minister advise his hon. and right hon. Friends to support us on this side when we vote this afternoon against the petrol tax, and so help the hon. Member in the difficulty to which his Question refers?