Apple and Pear Development Council

HC Deb 25 January 1966 vol 723 cc25-6W

Mr. Boston

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he has come to a decision about the establishment of an Apple and Pear Development Council.

Mr. Peart

After studying the views expressed by growers who responded to the recent postal inquiry conducted by my Department I have decided to seek Parliamentary authority for the establishment of an Apple and Pear Development Council for England and Wales. A draft Order under Section 1 of the Industrial Organisation and Development Act, 1947, will be laid before Parliament in due course.

The results of the inquiry showed that about 43 per cent. of the growers who would have to meet the cost of a Council, with some 59 per cent. of the acreage that would be subject to levy, are in favour of the proposals. Only 17 per cent. of the growers, with 21 per cent. of the acreage, are opposed. The National Union of Agricultural Workers and the Transport and General Workers' Union have also assured me of their support in principle and I am accordingly satisfied, as Section 1(3) of the Act requires me to be, that the establishment of a council is desired by a substantial number of the persons engaged in the industry".