§ Mr. Alex CarlileTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what plans he has to create a milk development council; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. CurryThe Government will consider any proposals from the milk industry for the establishment of a development council. Ministers would decide whether to make an order establishing such a development council in accordance with the provisions of the Industrial Organisation and Development Act 1947. This requires them, among other things, to be satisfied that this is desired by a substantial number of persons engaged in the industry.
The Agriculture Bill would enable an agricultural development council to collect a levy through intermediaries. This provision is designed to facilitate the efficient operation of such a council. The industry may, therefore, wish to consider making proposals after the enactment of the Bill.