§ 47. Mr. P. Wellsasked the Minister of Agriculture if he will now favourably consider an egg and poultry marketing scheme, in view of the detrimental effect prevailing uncertainty as to future policy is having on the industry.
§ 48. Mr. Remnantasked the Minister of Agriculture what progress has been made towards a marketing scheme for eggs and poultry; and whether he will make a statement.
§ 50. Mr. G. Williamsasked the Minister of Agriculture if he will make a statement concerning the marketing of eggs.
§ Mr. NugentDiscussions with the N.F.U.s on the future arrangements for egg marketing, including the question of a producers' marketing board, have been proceeding and the unions' comments on proposals put to them and certain counter-proposals by the unions were received at the beginning of this month. Ministers have now considered this communication and the discussions with the N.F.U.s will be resumed shortly.
§ Mr. WellsWill the Minister take care during these discussions to see that the consumer interest is not overlooked?
§ Mr. NugentCertainly. We shall see that there is a proper balance between consumer and producer interests.
§ Mr. RemnantCan my hon. Friend assure us that there is no withdrawal from the position of the Government being in favour of producer-marketing schemes?
§ Mr. NugentThat is still the Government policy in appropriate cases.