HC Deb 17 November 1955 vol 546 cc767-8
34. Mr. G. Williams

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if, in view of the fact that the horticultural industry does not receive support prices, he will consider a grant towards the cost of installing fuel-saving equipment.

Mr. Amory

This is one among the suggestions for assisting the horticultural industry which have been submitted to me by the National Farmers' Union and which are under consideration.

Mr. Williams

While welcoming his answer, may I express the hope that the Minister will bear in mind that in the horticultural industry costs have increased but prices have not risen; that he could help the industry very materially in this way and also save fuel, and that I hope he will be able to do something about it?

Mr. Amory

We are anxious to save fuel. I would remind my hon. Friend that there are loan facilities now available to horticulturists with glasshouses who wish to convert to oil fuel.