§ 24. Mr. Stodartasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is satisfied that the information about agricultural matters which he receives from British embassies in the countries which are members of the European Economic Community is adequate, in view of our recent application for membership.
§ Mr. StodartOn what does the right hon. Gentleman base his satisfaction, since the United States of America has four agricultural attaches in Paris, while we must rely on the half-time work of one commercial attaché?
§ Mr. PeartThe argument is really one of quality rather than quantity. This is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary, and the hon. Gentleman should address the Question to him. I am fully satisfied with the information I receive.
§ Mr. J. E. B. HillDoes not the Minister realise that it is his Ministerial responsibility to ensure that sufficient staff qualified in agricultural matters represent this country abroad? He knows full well that it is customary for experts from his Department to be seconded to the Foreign Service. I beg him not to dodge this important issue in this way.
§ Mr. PeartNo one is attempting to dodge the issue. I believe that our embassies provide my Department with all the information necessary to make a judgment of the situation in the Community.