§ 16. Mr. Hurdasked the Minister of Agriculture if he can now announce the Government's proposals for the marketing of eggs from 1st April onwards.
26. Lieut-Colonel Uptonasked the Minister of Agriculture what arrangements have been made in the interests of British producers and consumers to replace the present interim scheme of egg-marketing.
§ Sir T. DugdaleThe N.F.U.s have been informed of the Government's views on the long-term marketing proposals and on the price guarantee arrangements which the unions had in mind. Further discussions will no doubt be needed, and I cannot say when conclusions can be reached and implemented. Meantime, my right hon. and gallant Friend the Minister of Food will continue to operate the interim arrangements.
§ Mr. HurdMay we understand from that answer that the ordinary poultry producer can be assured that there will be a guarantee of price and market in future much the same as in the past year?
§ Sir T. DugdaleYes, Sir.
§ Lieut.-Colonel LiptonWill the Minister bear in mind that, by throwing over to private traders without restriction the importation of eggs from abroad, he has dealt a very damaging blow at the prospect of any more acceptable scheme of egg marketing, and that his action in doing so is regarded as something of a betrayal?
§ Sir T. DugdaleThat is not the position at all.
§ Mr. G. BrownSince the right hon. Gentleman has told his hon. Friend that the guarantee arrangements are to continue, in view of the very high rate at which the subsidy has been running and its high cost in money, can he give us any idea how much it will cost before he is ready with the new arrangement?
§ Sir T. DugdaleThe detailed arrangements for the year beginning 1st April must, of course, depend on the outcome of the Review which is now pending.
§ Mr. BrownIn that case, surely, the answer given to his hon. Friend was not quite right, because egg producers will have no guarantee as to what the position will be after 1st April?
§ Sir T. DugdaleThey have a guarantee but not as to price.