23 AUGUST 1969, Page 7

Grow less food

CHRISTOPHER HOLLIS

The RGA—the association of the world wheat exporting countries—is to hold a conference at Brussels to consider the problem of falling prices raised by their surplus production of wheat.

The experts have agreed to meet To see about the price of wheat.

It has indeed been freely said One half the world is underfed.

We must not panic at the rumours Of discontent among consumers.

Wheat is not grown—so we are told—

To be consumed but to be sold.

Our first need is to find a way

By which to make production pay.

In this the main hope of success Lies in producing rather less.

Thus through a shortage of supplies We may expect the price to rise.