HC Deb 14 May 1969 vol 783 cc1374-5
3. Mr. Dudley Smith

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what further representations he has received from farming interests about the operation of the National Agricultural Training Board; what reply he has sent; and if he will make a statement.

22. Mr. Buchanan-Smith

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what further representations he has received regarding the future operation of the Agricultural Training Board.

The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Mr. John Mackie)

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity is responsible for matters relating to the Agricultural Training Board, and representations addressed to us would normally be transferred to her Department for reply.

Mr. Smith

Does the Parliamentary Secretary not think that he ought to be interested in this matter? Does he not understand that there is deep hostility towards the Training Board? Are not the Government aware that, without the real co-operation of the farming community, the Training Board can never succeed? Will he do something to get the Government either to amend or abandon this?

Mr. Mackie

Naturally my right hon. Friend and myself take a great interest in the subject. The hon. Member's Question asked about representations and our replies, and I have dealt with that.

Mr. Buchanan-Smith

Will the hon. Gentleman scotch once and for all the rumours that the fertiliser subsidy may be reduced to pay for the Agricultural Training Board? Does he not realise that if this happens it would not be in the best interests of agricultural efficiency?

Mr. Mackie

This suggestion was put forward during discussions, because of the antipathy of farmers to a direct levy. The Government Departments concerned are definitely in favour of the direct levy system, and I can safely say that the fertiliser idea has been scotched.

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