asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is in a position to announce the increase in agricultural prices; or when the announcement will be made.

My right hon. Friend the Minister expects to make an announcement before the end of August.

Will the Parliamentary Secretary say what farmers are to do with this year's crop of oats, wheat and barley which they have already threshed, before the price is announced?

I am afraid that has nothing whatever to do with the Question which I answered.

Will the hon. Gentleman bear in mind the importance of getting his announcement out early before the end of August, to enable the necessary grassland to be sown for the change-over in production?

Yes, most certainly As the hon. Member will appreciate, there is a meeting pending on 19th August

Mr. Vane:

Can the Parliamentary Secretary say whether the total of these increases is going to equal the total additional cost to the industry, or will this be like last year and only go part of the way?

I think the hon. Gentleman had better await the announcement.

Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that some of the best farmers in the country have stated to me personally in my own Division that they are quite able to pay the increased wages without any increase on present prices?