Hutchinson calls for PM intervention in ministry impasse

JC Hutchinson, the Opposition Spokesman on Agriculture, is calling on Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller to personally take charge of the cloud of controversy hanging over the Agriculture Ministry.  

Reports have been swirling of a breakdown in the relationship between Agriculture Minister Roger Clarke and his State Minister Ian Hayles.

The situation is said to have deteriorated in recent weeks.

Mr. Hutchinson believes a crisis is approaching so Prime Ministerial intervention is necessary. 

“My understanding is that the breakdown in communication is creating a big effect in the Ministry of Agriculture itself and it cannot be good for agriculture and I think some action needs to be taken as quickly as possible by the Prime Minister,” Mr Hutchinson told the RJR News Centre. 

When contacted by the RJR News Centre, Mr. Clarke said he would not comment on claims that all is not well between himself and his junior Minister.                                   

 Meanwhile, Mr Hutchinson remained cautious when asked about reports that Mr Hayles could be transferred from the Agriculture Ministry:  

“I am not going to get into that aspect… that is for the Prime Minister to determine what actions needs to be taken.”