HC Deb 03 March 1955 vol 537 cc305-6W
69. Mr. Willey

asked the Minister of Agriculture what steps he is taking to improve the marketing of fruit and vegetables.

70. Sir F. Medlicott

asked the Minister of Agriculture what arrangements are being discussed with the representatives of the horticultural industry to improve the arrangements for the grading, packing and marketing of horticultural produce.

Mr. Nugent

My Department publishes Marketing Guides and "Recommended" grades for horticultural produce and my officers advise individual producers on their particular problems. In addition, investigations into specific marketing problems are undertaken, including the examination of produce in the wholesale markets, and the results of such inquiries are passed on to interested trade organisations and growers. In all these activities close contact is maintained with the horticultural industry. My right hon. Friend has already announced the setting up of a Committee to investigate the whole question of horticultural marketing.