§ Mr. W. SMITHasked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in spite of the decision to retain the staff of the Agriculture Costings Committee, the services of the director, Mr. H. G. Howell, have been dispensed with; and, if so, in view of his eminent qualifications, whether the right hon. Gentleman will have this matter reconsidered?
Mr. JONESI have been asked to reply for the Minister of Agriculture. The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The work of the Agriculture Costings Committee is being completed under the supervision of the three Departments of Agriculture, and there is, therefore, no necessity for the retention of the services of the director. The Minister of Agriculture has given the matter careful consideration, and does not propose to alter his decision.