§ 34. Mr. OUTHWAITEasked the Prime Minister whether his attention has been called to a meeting of the Almondbury and District Farmers' Association, at which a resolution was carried expressing regret that the agent of the Ramsden estate had refused permission to tenants to plough up grass land for growing corn; and whether he proposes to take any action to prevent landlords prohibiting the production of corn by tenants at this time of national crisis?
§ Mr. SHERWELLMay I ask whether this matter was not brought to the attention of the Board of Agriculture ten days ago, and whether the Board has not already given attention to it?
§ Sir H. VERNEYI was already aware of the case referred to, and have instructed one of our officers to inquire into the particulars. We now await his report.
§ Mr. OUTHWAITEIf the landlord continues to withhold this land from cultivation, will the Government introduce legislation?
§ Sir H. VERNEYMy hon. Friend's knowledge of agriculture will have taught him that it may not be desirable to plough up all the land. In this case it may be that the landlord is doing the most patriotic thing.