asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he will consider the introduction of a compulsory grading system in the tomato trade.

My Department have had under examination the question of grading systems for tomatoes and other fruit and vegetable crops and when the examination is completed I hope to take early and suitable action in the matter which will probably involve legislation.

Does the Minister expect to have this through the House in time for this year's crop of tomatoes? Is he aware of the chaos last year on the export market because there is no compulsory grading?

The matter is under examination at the moment. The Minister is fully conscious of the situation. Action will be taken as quickly as possible.