§ 17. Mr. Spearingasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what plans he has for maintaining the volume of liquid milk sales in the United Kingdom.
§ Mr. Peter WalkerThe doorstep delivery service is a vital factor in maintaining the high level of liquid milk consumption in this country. I have repeatedly expressed my determination to do all that I can to sustain that system.
§ Mr. SpearingDoes the right hon. Gentleman agree that there is already a large liquid surplus in Britain, as £70 million was spent last year on intervention? If he wishes to pursue his admirable objective, does he agree that he must ensure that the retail margin is sufficient to maintain the service, for without that the farmer will not be able to sell his milk?
§ Mr. WalkerI agree that it is essential to maintain a proper retail margin. If it is not maintained, the delivery service will disappear. The maintenance of a proper retail margin will be the Government's objective.
§ Mr. ThompsonIs my right hon. Friend able to give the producer-retailer any hope for the future?
§ Mr. WalkerYes. It is a service of immense importance. If we are to succeed in our policy, the producer-retailer will have to play a profitable role.
§ Mr. Allen McKayIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that two weeks ago he said that there would be an answer to the green top milk question in a few weeks? How long will those few weeks be now?
§ Mr. WalkerA very few weeks.