HC Deb 09 May 1962 vol 659 cc422-3
15. Mr. E. L. Mallalieu

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what action he has now taken to implement the recommendations of the Committee on Transactions in Seeds.

Mr. Soames

The Seeds Regulations, 1961, gave effect to a number of the recommendations of the Committee on Transactions in Seeds which did not require fresh legislation. Proposals for legislation to implement other recommendations of the Committee, including a system of plant breeders' Tights, have been discussed with the interests concerned, but I regret I cannot yet say when it will be possible to introduce this legislation.

Mr. Mallalieu

Would not the right hon. Gentleman agree that this is a very similar Answer to one given six months ago, and that in the meantime the agricultural industry is being deprived of important varieties of seeds? Can he give any indication that he is going to get a move on and put legislation on the Statute Book?

Mr. Soames

We are anxious to proceed with legislation, but there is a considerable amount for the legislative programme. All I can say is that there will not be room for it this Session.

Mr. Kimball

As there is a considerable measure of agreement about plant breeders' rights, will my right hon. Friend make available all the facilities within his Department so that this can be brought forward as a comparatively simple Private Member's Bill in the next Session?

Mr. Soames

This would mean quite complicated legislation, but it is not a question of differences of opinion that is holding it up. It is the fact that there are many clients for future legislation.