§ Mr. Newensasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on recent restrictions of oil supplies to British glasshouse growers; and what action he is taking to deal with this problem.
§ Mr. BishopThere is a relatively small total reduction of supplies which is spread unevenly among both the supplying companies and their customers. If growers face serious difficulties as a result of action taken by suppliers, they should contact the appropriate regional office of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food which, in liaison with the Department of Energy, will try to help.
§ Mr. Newensasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will investigate the effects of recent increases in the price of oil supplied to British glasshouse growers on the competitive advantage to Dutch growers who use gas; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BishopMy Department keeps a close watch on the competitive position of 665W United Kingdom and overseas growers. Fuel prices are just one of a large number of factors affecting growers' operating costs. In the case of some others, such as labour, United Kingdom growers have a relative advantage.