HC Deb 08 March 1910 vol 14 c1312
Mr. CHARLES BATHURST

asked whether the Board of Agriculture has any official information showing that the new breeds of wheat recently produced as the result of prolonged experiment by the Agricultural Department at Cambridge University do in fact possess, as alleged, the cropping qualities of the best English wheats coupled with the milling and baking qualities of the best Manitoban, as well as comparative freedom from rust; and, if so, whether the Board will take steps to render seed wheat of this description available for farmers throughout the kingdom?

Sir E. STRACHEY

We are advised that several of Professor Biffen's new Wheats possess the properties indicated, but they have not as yet been produced in sufficient quantities to be placed on the market commercially. It is hoped that one of the first wheats raised by Professor Biffen will be on sale to the public next year.

Mr. CHARLES BATHURST

I should like to ask the hon. Gentleman whether when these breeds are produced in sufficient quantities to place on the market the Board of Agriculture will take steps to enable farmers throughout the country to make use of them?

Sir E. STRACHEY

That question is under consideration.