National Milk Publicity Council

HC Deb 24 November 1955 vol 546 cc1638-9

26. Mr. Arbuthnot

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if his attention has been drawn to the expenditure of public money in the propaganda being put out by the National Milk Publicity Council; what is his Department's contribution to this body; and whether he will give instructions for it to be discontinued immediately.

Mr. Amory

My Department makes no direct contribution to the funds of the National Milk Publicity Council. During the current financial year, however, a sum of £85,000 for publicity is being allowed in the assessment of the marketing expenses of the Milk Marketing Board. The position will be reviewed in the normal way before the end of the financial year. An increase in liquid milk consumption is most desirable, and I consider the work of the Council most valuable.

Mr. G. Thomas

Is the Minister aware that he will have the support of a very great section of the community if he will divert some of the money which he is spending on production of beer to the advertisement of milk?