§ 116. Mr. Stodartasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he will authorise the Potato Marketing Board to undertake a buying programme, in view of the low returns which Scottish growers are receiving.
§ Mr. Hoy:The purpose of buying programmes is to ensure, so far as possible, that the average price paid to producers of potatoes in the United Kingdom is not less than the guaranteed price for the season. So far the cumulative average price paid this season is above the guaranteed price. My right hon. Friend and my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland are ready to authorise a buying programme whenever it seems likely that, unless this is done, a deficiency payment may arise at the end of the season.