HC Deb 29 October 1954 vol 531 cc316-7W
Major Anstruther-Gray

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether his attention has been called to the Sixth Report of the Select Committee on Estimates; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. Amory

In view of the many changes in conditions during recent years, and bearing in mind the Select Committee's Report, I have decided to appoint a committee of independent persons to review the provincial and local organisation of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries; and, in the light of the decision to amalgamate that Department and the Ministry of Food, to have regard to the remaining similar organisations of the Ministry of Food also. This review will include the examination of the organisation and methods adopted within the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries and the Agricultural Land Commission for dealing with transactions in agricultural land which has already been announced. Sir Arton Wilson, K.B.E., C.B., has agreed to act as Chairman, and I will announce in due course the names of the other members of the committee.