56. Sir R. De la Bèreasked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in view of the reduction, in the February Price Review, of some £30 million in farm prices, he will confer with the Federation of British Industries, or some appropriate body, with a view to the industries supplying agriculture with the essentials for production being persuaded to make a contribution to the £30 million reduction in farm revenue.
§ Sir T. DugdaleThe reduction to which my hon. Friend refers is an estimate of the reduction in guaranteed prices. The Government's price determinations took account of all farmers' costs, and some of these have fallen. Efficiency is also continuing to improve. It does not follow therefore from a reduction in guaranteed prices that there will be nearly the same fall in the net farm income. The cost structure of ancillary industries does not come within the scope of the Review.
Sir R. De la BèreWhy cannot the manufacturer pay some part of this? Why does the farmer have to pay everything? Surely it is desirable that everyone should make a contribution if it is needed?
§ Sir T. DugdaleThe manufacturer is not subsidised in the same way as is the farmer.
§ Mr. G. BrownIs not the Minister aware that the loss of confidence is due much more to the loss of the guaranteed market, and this is really troubling the agricultural industry?
§ Sir T. DugdaleThere is no loss of confidence. [HON. MEMBERS: "Oh!"] Responsible farmers in all parts of the 611 country are satisfied with the agreement reached between the Governments and their union.
§ Mr. GodberIs my right hon. Friend satisfied that what the right hon. Member for Belper (Mr. G. Brown) said is not correct, and that there is no loss of guaranteed market, which is above 60 per cent. of the level pre-war?