HC Deb 03 May 1967 vol 746 cc514-5
7. Mr. Bryant Godman Irvine

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what is his policy towards the smaller poultry-keeper.

20. Mr. Peter Mills

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what further plans he has to assist small producers of eggs.

Mr. Peart

The egg guarantee arrangements are designed to safeguard the position of egg producers generally. The smaller producer is not necessarily at a disadvantage in competing with the larger enterprises, and I am not considering further special assistance.

Mr. Irvine

Will the Minister talk to a few small producers? All those in my constituency are filled with gloom. They think that he is more interested in the income of Danish and Polish small poultry producers than he is in them.

Mr. Peart

The hon. Member is fully aware that I probably address more farmers' meetings than many hon. Members, and inevitably from time to time the views of small producers are conveyed to me. He will also be aware that a scheme which we agreed with the Egg Board was designed to help the small producers. I am generally under attack for being too prejudiced towards the small producers.

Mr. Dance

Will the Minister make representations to the President of the Board of Trade to take immediate action to stop the dumping of Polish eggs?

Mr. Peart

As I replied to the hon. Member's right hon. Friend, the submission has gone to the Board of Trade. My right hon. Friend will be examining it, and I cannot say more than that. [Interruption.] Of course, he will do it quickly. He always acts quickly.

Mr. Peter Mills

The Minister's reply is most unsatisfactory. Surely he has some concrete plans to deal with the problem of the small poultry farmer, such as the extension of co-operative schemes? Will he not allow this problem just to go on drifting?

Mr. Peart

The hon. Member should know that my Bill, which he did not oppose, but welcomed with reservations, and many other matters are designed to stimulate producer co-operation, to help the small producers. I have also mentioned the Egg Board's contract scheme which I actively support. It gives a higher price for the smaller producer. I cannot go beyond the statement I made about the application on dumping. It is being considered.