§ 12. Mr. Championasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the cost of the Government contribution under the 1956 Fertilisers Scheme; and how much it is expected to be under the 1957 Scheme.
Mr. AmoryPayments under the 1956 Schemes are still being made, but the total expenditure is likely to be about £22 million. The cost of the proposals in the draft 1957 Scheme now before the House is expected to be about £28 million.
§ Mr. ChampionWas the increased cost due to the rise in price of sulphuric acid or to additional fertiliser use, or both?
Mr. AmoryThe difference between the two figures I have just quoted is due 1443 partly to the increase in the subsidy given at the last Annual Price Review and partly to a higher rate of consumption.