HC Deb 03 February 1958 vol 581 cc796-7
24. Mr. Willey

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he will make a statement on the committee established to review the future field of work for county agricultural executive committees.

The Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Mr. John Hare)

My noble Friend the Joint Parliamentary Secretary has been asked to make a special study of this problem. An informal committee has been set up under his chairmanship and he will be reporting to me shortly.

Mr. Willey

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the circular which was sent to the committees in November has been the cause of a good deal of melancholy speculation, and if there is any suggestion of further whittling down the powers of the committees, will he assure the House that he will then publish the report?

Mr. Hare

I do not know about publishing the report, but I can assure the hon. Member that I place great importance upon the work of the committees and hope they will continue to have an important rôle to play in the service of agriculture.