HC Deb 11 August 1966 vol 733 cc1864-5
20. Mr. Godber

asked the First Secretary of State and Secretary of State for Economic Affairs when the Economic Development Council for Agriculture will be set up; and what is the reason for the delay.

Mr. Albu

Our consultations are not yet complete, but my right hon. Friend hopes to be able to make a statement fairly soon.

Mr. Godber

This is very disappointing indeed. Is it true that this is the only one of the little N.E.D.C.s which has not yet been set up? If this is so, is not this yet a further indication of this Government's lack of interest in agricultural matters generally?

Mr. Albu

Certainly not. The Government and my right hon. Friend have been pursuing this matter very energetically, but I regret that for the moment we are not able to make a statement about the formation of the Economic Development Council.

Mr. Emrys Hughes

Will the Economic Development Council for Agriculture make a searching inquiry into recent increases in farmers' rents, which are a heavy burden on the agricultural industry? Will my hon. Friend do his best to expedite this inquiry, in the interests of farmers and of consumers?

Mr. Albu

I am sure that the Economic Development Council will make all the inquiries and studies it feels are necessary to improve the efficiency and profitability of agriculture.

Mr. Godber

The Minister of State did not answer the first part of my supplementary question. Is it true that this is the only one of the little N.E.D.C.s which has not yet been set up? If this is so, is not this an indication of the Government's complete lack of interest in agricultural matters generally?

Mr. Albu

It is not so. There are several economic development councils which we are considering setting up.