§ 2.35 p.m.
§ THE JOINT PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY, MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES (LORD CARRINGTON)My Lords, this is the first scheme to be made under the Agriculture (Fertilisers) Act, 1952, and in accordance with the provisions of the Act its operation is limited to the year beginning July 1, 1951, and ending June 30, 1952. As I indicated in my speech on the Second Reading of the Act, it puts into effect an undertaking given by my right honourable friend the Minister of Agriculture that he will introduce a subsidy on phosphates retrospective to July 1, 1951. The scheme provides for the payment of approximately 30 per cent. of the cost of phosphatic fertilisers delivered in the year beginning July 1, 1951, to occupiers of agricultural land in the United Kingdom. Provision is made for the payment of contributions to associations of farmers, allotment holders and other small bodies who buy fertilisers in bulk for redistribution to their members. This will allow the small user of fertilisers to obtain the amount he requires with the reduction in price that the scheme allows. I beg to move that the Order be approved.
§ Moved, That the Fertilisers (United Kingdom) Scheme, 1952, reported from the Special Orders Committee on Wednesday last, be approved.—(Lord Carrington.)
§ On Question, Motion agreed to.