§ Mr. Michael Marshallasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on the outlook for the horticultural industry during the next six months.
§ Mr. StrangI would refer the hon. Member to the reply given to my hon. Friend the Member for Renfrewshire, West (Mr. Buchan) on 3rd March—[Vol. 927, c.277–9.]—when I made a statement on the longer-term outlook for the horticulture industry. As to the shorter term, much the same considerations apply. The industry needs to be flexible, responding to market requirements, which are heavily influenced by variations in supply and demand. I believe that the industry in general meets those requirements, and I am glad to see the renewed confidence which many efficient growers have in their industry.