Padfield v Minister of Agriculture [1968] AC 997

Court: House of Lords

Facts: Padfield and other milk producers in the SouthEast region complained to the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries that the prices for their milk should be increased due to rising transport costs. The Milk Marketing Board sets the price, taking transport costs into account. The Minister refused to appoint a committee of investigation, citing political and economic difficulties if the committee found in favor of the claimants. J

Held : Appeal allowed; the Minister’s refusal to appoint a committee frustrated the purpose of the Act. Judicial review can address discretionary powers to ensure they align with the statutory intent. A minister’s discretion in exercising statutory powers cannot frustrate the purpose of the Act.