§ Mr. R. Morganasked the Minister of Agriculture what is the present composition of the Potato Marketing Board; to what extent the members of this board represent producing, distributing, and 724W consuming interests, respectively; and whether, before granting this board un-restricted powers as a trading body, he will take steps to ensure that the board is fully representative of distributors and consumers of potatoes?
§ Sir R. Dorman-SmithThe Potato Marketing Board consists of 31 members of whom 24 are elected by registered producers voting by districts; five special members are elected by registered producers in general meeting; and two members are co-opted by the elected members after consultation with the Market Supply Committee. I understand that of the 29 elected members of the present board, 25 are farmers and four are merchants.
As regards the last part of the question, the election of board members is governed by the provisions of the Agricultural Marketing Acts, and I have no power to require the representation of any special interests. I ought to add, in case there should be some misapprehension in my hon. Friend's mind, that the proposed amendments to the Potato Marketing Scheme would not have the effect of giving the board unrestricted trading powers.
§ Mr. Craven-Ellisasked the Minister of Agriculture whether before seeking the approval of Parliament for the draft amendments to the Potato Marketing Scheme, he can arrange to make available to Members the report on these amendments, which was submitted to him by the person holding the inquiry into the objections which were made by the various trade associations?
§ Sir R. Dorman-SmithNo, Sir. In accordance with established and strictly observed practice, the reports of Commissioners appointed to hold public inquiries under the Agricultural Marketing Acts are always treated as confidential to the Minister.