35. Sir J. Gilraonrasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what consultations he has had with the National Farmers' Union of Scotland and the Egg Marketing Board about the future level of egg production in Scotland, in view of the recent Price Review decision to reduce the guaranteed price for eggs in order to discourage over-production; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BuchanProspects for the egg industry were discussed with the three farmers' unions at the Annual Review As announced in the Annual Review White Paper, the Government have agreed to discuss with the farmers' unions and the Egg Marketing Board the future marketing arrangements for eggs, and these discussions may well have a bearing on production. I cannot anticipate the outcome of these talks.
§ Sir J. GilmourIs the hon. Gentleman satisfied, in view of that Answer and the large number of eggs which have had to be broken out over past months, that there is any justification for spending Government money on encouraging new poultry ventures to come to Scotland, particularly to the east and west of Fife?
§ Mr. BuchanI cannot comment on the last part of that question, but, as 1500 regards marketing generally, I have seen no objections from farmers on the need for Government assistance to a very important industry.