HC Deb 28 February 1968 vol 759 c1403
37. Mr. Bryant Godman Irvine

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what has been the increase in total cost of such inputs as fertilisers, seeds, feedingstuffs and fuel, and increased investment in machinery at constant prices above 1964–65 and its percentage increase above 1964–65.

Mr. John Mackie

In terms of constant prices the total cost of material inputs used by agriculture increased by £21 million between 1964–65 and 1966–67, or about 2 per cent., and new gross investment in plant and machinery was £77 million in 1965 and 1½ per cent. less at £76 million in 1967.

Mr. Godman Irvine

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the increasing costs for the industry are causing the gravest anxiety, and that is one of the reasons why it has so little confidence in this Government?

Mr. Mackie

No, Sir.