§ 50. Mr. Biffenasked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what representations he has received from agricultural tenants of the Duchy concerning liquid milk imports from the Common Market.
§ Mr. LeverNone, Sir. But if the hon. Member wishes to forward me any such representations, I shall discuss them with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.
§ Mr. BiffenWill the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster confirm that the very substantial agricultural estates of the 30 Duchy compel him to take an alert interest in farming affairs? Will he therefore indicate that any plans for the future of milk marketing should confirm the present arrangements which preclude foreign supplies of liquid milk to the British market?
§ Mr. LeverI think that I can sincerely welcome the hon. Gentleman's interest in the agricultural prospects of Duchy lands and Duchy tenants.
The problem that the hon. Gentleman has raised is of equal application throughout the United Kingdom, and the danger that seems to agitate him does not seem to approximate to one. Nevertheless, I am grateful to him for drawing attention to a cloud no bigger than a man's hand which he sees in the distance, and I promise to adopt an alert and constructive attitude which is sympathetic to the spirit of his question.