HC Deb 29 November 1990 vol 181 c1011
13. Mr. Nicholas Bennett

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what representations he has received on the future of the milk marketing board.

Mr. Curry

I have received representations on this subject from a range of individuals and organisations representing milk producers, processors and consumers.

Mr. Bennett

Although I recognise that the present system cannot remain unreformed, will my hon. Friend bear in mind the position of small family farmers in far-flung areas such as Pembrokeshire, who fear that if the national system is broken up into as many as 30 different co-operatives, they will be seriously disadvantaged in relation to dairy manufacturers?

Mr. Curry

My hon. Friend is right, but the greatest threat to the small farmer would be to do absolutely nothing and wait for the scheme to collapse under the weight of its problems. The answer is to find a sensible alternative and to get a move on with it.