HC Deb 17 February 1965 vol 706 cc1172-3
13. Mr. Manuel

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what was the decrease in the dairy cow population in Scotland from January, 1960, until December, 1964; and how many producers between the above dates abandoned dairying.

Mr. Ross

There was a decrease of about 12,000 in the dairy cow population during this period. The number of producers producing milk for sale in the area of the three Milk Marketing Boards decreased by 1,116 in the same period.

Mr. Manuel

Do not those figures confirm that there is a serious situation in Scotland? Will not my right hon. Friend further agree that speedy remedial action should now be taken in order to avoid the danger of a further reduction in milk production?

Mr. Ross

Milk production during the period did not fall but rose because of higher productivity. We are, however, naturally concerned about the whole trend of things. We want to achieve a proper balance.

Mr. Brewis

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that although there was a very considerable increase at the last Price Review, the profitability for a dairy cow has fallen to a very low level? This is a very important industry in the south-west of Scotland. Will the right hon. Gentleman use his influence to try to increase the price, although his sympathies lie more with the urban consumer in Kilmarnock and other places?

Mr. Ross

As the hon. Gentleman knows, I have very considerable interest in agriculture and in milk production in Kilmarnock and district. My constituency is not urban. He will be aware that certain discussions are taking place at the moment elsewhere and it would be very unwise of me to reply on this matter now or to be drawn in relation to the outcome of those discussions.

Mr. George Y. Mackie

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the subject of alternatives to dairying is very important and that there is a general lack of confidence at the moment engendered by the failure of his right hon. Friend to support the efforts of the Potato Marketing Board?

Hon. Members

Answer.

Mr. Ross

If I could find what the Potato Marketing Board had to do with milk, I would answer.

Mr. Emrys Hughes

Is my right hon. Friend aware that many small milk producers are greatly worried by recent increases in rent, which in some cases have amounted to 7 per cent., representing as much as 2d. or 3d. in the gallon? Is he aware that my farming constituents are greatly annoyed by the policy of the landowners of Scotland, who would not hesitate to steal milk from a blind kitten?