HC Deb 21 February 1957 vol 565 cc578-9
22. Mr. Beswick

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will give particulars of the leaflet issued by the Egg Marketing Board which states that a guarantee through a deficiency payments scheme is a practicable alternative to the scheme for an Egg Marketing Board on which producers are now being asked to vote; how many of these leaflets were printed; and how they are being circulated.

Mr. Amory

The Board has issued two leaflets entitled "Have you registered?" and "Your questions answered", which mention deficiency payments as an alternative form of guarantee. The printing and circulation of these leaflets is a domestic matter for the Board, but I understand that their aim has been to distribute sufficient copies to reach all producers affected by the Scheme.

Mr. Beswick

Is the Minister aware that at present these documents are virtually secret documents, whereas the National Farmers' Union has given very wide circulation to a leaflet which suggests that producers must vote for this particular scheme, otherwise there is no chance of a guaranteed price? Will the Minister make absolutely sure that producers see the other leaflet?

Mr. Amory

I do not think that the hon. Member's statement is quite accurate. The leaflets issued by the N.F.U. which I have seen have called attention to the fact that the deficiency payment is an alternative but not one which they personally believe would be satisfactory.