§ 59. Mr. Gowerasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will take steps to afford small farmers adequate representation for the price reviews; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. GodberMy right hon. Friend is satisfied that the interests of small farmers are adequately represented under the present arrangements for price reviews.
§ Mr. GowerIs my hon. Friend aware that there is evidence that small farmers have a general sense of grievance, particularly in areas like mid-Wales? Will he reconsider this matter with a view to removing these grievances which seem fairly general in the fringe areas and marginal areas?
§ Mr. GodberI would not say that the small farmer problem relates only to Wales; it is very much more widespread. I would think that the proper channel is the National Farmers' Unions of the three countries, who nominate the representatives for these discussions. I should also have thought that the representation that they provide is the best-based one that we could get.