§ Captain Kerbyasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many objections he has received to the Potato Board's proposals to increase the acreage levies; and when he is holding an inquiry into the objections.
§ Mr. SoamesEight thousand five hundred and twelve objections and representations have been received. They were mainly in the same form and related to the proposed increases in acreage levies.
Having considered the nature of the objections I have decided, in conjunction with the Secretary of State for Scotland, to hold a public inquiry in accordance with the Agricultural Marketing Act, 1958. The date and other arrangements will be announced in due course.