§ 38. Mr. Russellasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what steps he proposes to take to ensure that the United Kingdom fulfils the hope expressed in the Anglo-Australian Agreement of February, 1957, that our imports of Australian wheat and flour would not fall below 750,000 tons a year.
§ Mr. GodberThose arrangements are between the United Kingdom flour millers and the Australian Wheat Board, but my right hon. Friend keeps the position under review and will consult as necessary with the trades concerned.
§ Mr. RussellIs my hon. Friend aware that last calendar year the total of wheat and wheat substitutes did not reach the 750,000 tons a year level? Can he give some assurance that Australian wheat growers will not be let down as were the meat producers over the weekend?
§ Mr. GodberOn the first part of my hon. Friend's supplementary question, my advice is that there is no likelihood that the figure will not be reached. As regards the second part, I really must tell him that I do not think that there is any justification for putting a question in that form. In fact, the Australian meat producers have not been let down. We are willing to take all the meat that they desire to send. The only difference, if any, is in our estimation of the future market in this country.