§ 44. Mr. Hastingsasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food to what extent the fall in returns to growers of brussels sprouts this autumn and winter has been due to general farmers using them as a break crop; and if he will consider using the services of the National Agricultural Advisory Service to discourage this trend.
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§ Mr. Anthony StodartThere are many factors which can influence the selling price of brussels sprouts and hence growers' returns. The crop's increased popularity as a break crop is no doubt one. In giving advice to growers, advisory officers draw attention to production and marketing possibilities and dangers; but it is for each individual grower to decide what crops he will grow.
§ 53. Mr. David Clarkasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what estimate he has made of how many acres of brussels sprouts were deliberately destroyed in the 1970–71 season.
§ Mr. Anthony StodartThis year's crop of brussels sprouts is a record one and there has been some ploughing-in in a few areas. But picking is still going on and a firm assessment of overall wastage cannot be made until after the season is over.