§ 46. Mr. J. Johnsonasked the Prime Minister what subjects were discussed at his recent conference with the Warwickshire National Farmers' Union; and what decisions about the Government's agricultural policy were made.
§ The Prime MinisterThe meeting of the Warwickshire County Branch of the National Farmers' Union in my constituency, which I addresed on 23rd of June, was private, as stated at the time.
§ Mr. JohnsonNotwithstanding that, is it not true that, before the meeting, county farmers in all constituencies, including my own, were highly critical of the farming policy of this Government, and that after the meeting both the right hon. Gentleman and the farmers came out smiling? Is the Prime Minister aware that it is widely said in the county that he made promises there about next year's Price Review? Will he not say something about that?
§ The Prime MinisterNo promises were made and no policy statement could result. As the hon. Gentleman is being so kind about his references to the conversations, perhaps I might quote a report from the Farmer and Stock-breeder which pleased me very much. It described the atmosphere as "very cordial" and said:
Sir Anthony surprised many of the farmers' representatives with his knowledge of the industry.
Mr. T. WilliamsWhy was the Prime Minister so apprehensive of a public meeting with such a body of mild-mannered farmers as in Warwickshire?
§ The Prime MinisterI have the highest respect for the Warwickshire farmers, and I know them even better than does the right hon. Member. I am fully entitled to have private meetings with bodies, as I frequently do with all sorts of representatives, not excluding the T.U.C.