§ 19. Sir T. Mooreasked the Secretary of State for Scotland when he proposes to abolish the county agricultural committees in Scotland.
§ The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. James Stuart)The 11 agricultural executive committees established in Scotland under the Agriculture (Scotland) Act, 1948, have many important duties to perform in the interests of agricultural efficiency and in the furtherance of the Government's policy of securing an expansion of home production. In present circumstances, I am satisfied that it is essential to retain them.
§ Sir T. MooreIs my right hon. Friend not aware that there is a substantial feeling in the country that these wartime instruments have outlived their need, and in some cases, according to my information, have exercised dictatorial powers which have caused considerable resentment?
§ Mr. StuartThere are now only 11 of these committees in Scotland; the members give their services voluntarily and we will, of course, watch the position.
§ Mr. WoodburnIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that these county agricultural committees have rendered excellent service to the community and that the only people upset about them are the dud farmers?
§ Mr. StuartI agree that they have rendered very good service.