HC Deb 24 March 1965 vol 709 cc546-7
21. Mr. Peter Walker

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he has now decided to accept all or some of the recommendations of the Verdon Smith Report.

Mr. Peart

As was announced in the Annual Review White Paper, urgent consideration is being given to proposals for the establishment of a Meat and Livestock Commission, which would be charged with responsibilities for the improvement of meat marketing. I have written to the main organisations concerned inviting them to discuss these proposals and I will make a further statement when the discussions have been completed.

Mr. Walker

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that he accused my right hon. Friend the Member for Bedford (Mr. Soames) of procrastination on this issue last July? The last time that he answered Questions he suggested that he would have to come to detailed conclusions on this. When are we going to have his detailed conclusions? Will he read carefully the sensible suggestions put forward by my hon. Friend the Member for Cornwall, North (Mr. Scott-Hopkins)?

Mr. Peart

The hon. Member for Cornwall, North (Mr. Scott-Hopkins) does not represent informed opinion on this matter. I am consulting all the main organisations which will be affected by the proposals in the White Paper. I can do no more than that, and I think it right and proper to have consultations. There will be no delay, and we shall make a decision.

Mr. Jopling

Will the Minister tell us whether the commission that he has in mind will have control over imported as well as home-produced products?

Mr. Peart

The hon. Member should wait and see what will happen after my consultations.

Mr. Scott-Hopkins

After the announcement of any decisions, and before they are implemented, may we have an opportunity of debating this matter? Further, can the Minister say what is the point of these consultations if, as he said when he last answered Questions on this matter, he has already come to a conclusion?

Mr. Peart

I have—and that is why I made the specific statement in the White Paper to set up a commission. It is right and proper that I should have discussions with the trade, the producers and the important interests that will be affected.