§ Mr. Craven Ellisasked the Minister of Information whether he is aware that on 24th May the B.B.C. announced an offer of a loan of money to farmers on behalf of the Agricultural Mortgage Corporation, Limited, in terms which placed the offer in the category of commercial advertising; and if the same privilege will be given to building societies and similar money-lending organisations.
Mr. G. LloydI cannot agree with the hon. Member's description of this broadcast. It was part of the B.B.C.'s regular service of news and information for farmers; and its purpose was to explain how, as a result of the increased financial assistance granted by Parliament to the Agricultural Mortgage Corporation last July, owners of agricultural land could obtain long term loans at a reduced rate of interest. With regard to the second part of the Question, I see no reason for making such a suggestion to the Board of Governors.