§ 12. Mr. Rostasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what action he has taken to assist and advise the industries with which his Department is concerned, to conserve energy.
§ Mr. StrangMy Ministry is making every effort to give the industry practical information on methods of saving fuel.
§ Mr. RostI appreciate that answer, but does the hon. Gentleman agree that it is a year since the energy crisis arose and that other countries have implemented conservation projects? Does the hon. Gentleman not think it is time he got together with the Department of Energy and put into practice some constructive projects to conserve energy, with grant-aid technical assistance?
§ Mr. StrangI am happy to inform the hon. Gentleman that the Agricultural Research Council is rejigging its research to pursue projects to help use energy more efficiently in agriculture. The council is doing everything it can to promote the more efficient use of energy in agriculture.
§ Mr. CormackIs the hon. Gentleman aware that one part of the industry that is heavily dependent on fuel is horticulture? May we have an announcement very soon?
§ Mr. StrangThe hon. Gentleman raises a very important point. We have got to adapt our economy to these high energy 1925 prices, and although it is very unpopular the horticulture industry itself must also adapt to these. That is why my right hon. Friend has announced that it will not be possible to extend the special subsidy granted by this Government.