HC Deb 15 May 1968 vol 764 cc1209-10
20. Mr. Buchanan-Smith

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he will make the levy order for the Meat and Livestock Commission.

Mr. Cledwyn Hughes

The Commission have today published their proposals for a levy scheme which have been formally submitted to my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland and me. We are now ready to consider these proposals and to receive representations from the interests concerned before deciding on the submission of a draft Order for approval by resolution of each House of Parliament. My right hon. Friend and I hope it may be possible to lay a draft immediately after the Whitsun Recess.

Mr. Buchanan-Smith

Can the right hon. Gentleman confirm that if the full levy asked for is authorised it will cost the livestock industry £3 million in a full year? Is he satisfied that producers will get a good return for their money?

Mr. Hughes

I am anxious that producers should get a good return and also that the economy should benefit, but it would not be proper for me at this stage to be drawn into discussion on this, because the Act requires the Commission to submit proposals and requires me to examine them and to be satisfied before any levy scheme is brought into force.

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