HC Deb 20 October 1953 vol 518 cc1801-2
44. Mr. Grimond

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the long-term arrangements for the marketing of eggs.

Mr. J. Stuart

No, Sir. The Government are at present considering the future arrangements for egg marketing, but no decision has yet been reached. The N.F.U.'s have been asked to submit their proposals as soon as possible.

Mr. Grimond

Can the Minister give us any indication when a decision may be reached and an assurance that before a decision is reached the special problems of the more remote areas will be carefully considered?

Mr. Stuart

I assure the hon. Gentleman that we are aware of the difficulties of the more remote areas, as was stated in the recent announcement, but I am afraid that I cannot at this stage say when we shall be able to announce a final decision.

Mr. Woodburn

Are we to understand from the right hon. Gentleman that the Government have no policy in this matter?

Mr. Stuart

I would rather not announce policy at this stage.

Captain Duncan

If the National Farmers' Unions are not producing an egg marketing scheme, will the Government produce one?

Mr. Stuart

It is the duty of the Government to deal with the matter, and we shall await the advice of the farmers' unions.