61.
asked the Minister of Agriculture if, in order to remove misconceptions recently aroused in the public mind, he will issue a White Paper setting out the factors that determine the prices guaranteed to British farmers.
The prices guaranteed to agricultural producers are determined in the light of the conclusions reached from reviews of the economic condition and prospects of the industry which are held in accordance with Section 2 of the Agriculture Act, 1947. All relevant factors are taken into account in the course of these reviews and in the subsequent determination of prices, but the importance attached to different factors may vary from one review to another and I do not think that any useful purpose would be served by the issue of a White Paper.
As these misconceptions persist and as farmers have nothing to hide —nor, presumably have the Government— would it not be wise to have the facts set out plainly in black and white?
I doubt whether it would be possible to provide the clarity which the hon. Member desires.
Will the Minister think about this again? We keep having misunderstandings on this point. I would commend the Minister to read the speech which his right hon. and learned Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer made in the House on Monday. It completely confuses the issue on this problem.
There may have been confusion, but I am perfectly certain that it does not rest with the farming community or with those who represent the Government conduct these reviews.
I entirely agree. That is why we want a White Paper giving the facts.