§ 28. Mr. Joplingasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many contracts the Cereals Marketing Authority made for the 1965 crop for wheat and barley; how many tons were involved; and what proportion he estimates this is of the total crop.
§ Mr. HoyThe latest estimates of contracts expected to qualify for payment are: Wheat, 27,900 contracts; 1,647,000 tons; 41 per cent. of estimated total sales. Barley, 35,640 contracts; 1,839,000 tons; 37 per cent. of estimated total sales.
§ Mr. JoplingWould the hon. Gentleman agree that to take 41 per cent. of the wheat crop and 37 per cent. of the barley crop in the first year of a contract sales system for cereals is a magnificent testimony to the agricultural industry in taking up a new system from scratch? Does he not think that the waiting period for the contracts might be shortened in future?
§ Mr. HoyI agree with what the hon. Gentleman has said, in contrast, perhaps, to something that was said in Committee. I am delighted with the results. I will pay a little attention to his second point. I have not yet considered it, but will do so.