HC Deb 27 January 1966 vol 723 cc127-8W
Mr. Bagier

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on his meeting with Sir Harold Woolley held in reference to a questionnaire of which a copy has been sent to him by the hon. Member for Sunderland, South.

Mr. Crawshaw

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on the discussions he has had with the National Farmers' Union regarding the questionnaire being circulated by the National Farmers' Union; and whether he will give an undertaking that he will not negotiate the Annual Farm Prices Review until the questionnaire is withdrawn.

Mr. Murray

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on his discussions with the National Farmers' Union with regard to the questionnaire now being circulated by the National Farmers' Union, a copy of which has been sent to him, including the possibility of a withdrawal of food from the housewife.

Mr. Peart

When I saw the President of the National Farmers' Union on January 25th, I made it plain that I regretted the issue of the questionnaire, which could only be construed by public opinion as a threat, issued before the Annual Review discussions had begun, of industrial action if the farmers' wishes were not met. In particular I emphasised that, if an artificial shortage of food were created, it would be my responsibility as Minister of Food to ensure sufficient food supplies, regardless of their source, to feed the people of this country. As regards the Annual Review, my right hon. Friends and I intend, in accordance with the principles of the Agriculture Acts of 1947 and 1957, to consult with the Farmers' Unions about the general economic condition and prospects of the industry before we determine guaranteed prices.