§ Mr. Bakerasked the Minister of Agriculture what steps he is to take, in view of the horticultural industry's rejection of the apple and pear scheme, to improve horticultural marketing.
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§ Sir T. DugdaleI do not consider that the rejection of the Apple and Pear Marketing Scheme by producers provides grounds for any radical change of policy on horticultural marketing. Any further marketing schemes which may be submitted by producers will be considered on their merits. In general, my Department will continue to encourage producers to organise for better marketing through agricultural marketing schemes, co-operative societies or other forms of association and to improve the packing, grading and presentation of their produce. Although the Government can and will provide advice and certain facilities, progress in horticultural marketing must depend mainly on the initiative of growers, whether acting individually or jointly.