§ 63. Sir W. Smithersasked the Minister of Food if he has studied the resolution passed by the National Farmers' Union Kent County Branch of which a copy has been sent him concerning the price of milk the high price of feeding-stuffs and fertilisers the increase in the costs of production and the probability of the necessity of re-introducing milk rationing next winter; and what action he proposes to take.
§ Mr. WebbYes, I have seen this resolution. It is not the Government's view that the prices fixed for 1951–52 will so reduce milk production as to make rationing necessary. My right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture and I are, however, concerned about the continued bad weather, which is not only affecting present milk yields but may also prejudice our next year's supply of home-grown fodder. Circumstances of this kind are, by their very nature, difficult to offset, but all necessary action will be taken.