§ 13. Sir John Gilmourasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received about the need for special assistance to the horticulture industry in Scotland; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. William RossThe Scottish National Farmers' Union has made representations to me about the effects of increased fuel oil prices. I am urgently considering these.
§ Sir J. GilmourDoes the right hon. Gentleman agree that Continental growers appear to have been given assurances of financial help with the increased price of fuel oil, and that the recently announced increased price for coal will affect commercial growers who are still using coal?
§ Mr. RossYes, I am aware of the situation. It is not confined to Scotland or, indeed, to this country. The people who seem to be better off are those who use natural gas and are our greatest competitors—the Dutch.