§ 15. Mr. GINNELLasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland if he is now in a position to announce the intentions of the Government with reference to the necessary increase of food production in Ireland in the coming year, especially releasing for tillage the grass ranches seriously deteriorated from want of cultivation, the supply of agricultural machinery to working farmers, and the supply of good seeds to small farmers and labourers; and, if legislation is essential for any of those purposes, whether it will be introduced without further delay?
§ 30. Mr. LYNCHasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether, in view of the urgency of the problem of food supply he will ascertain the number of acres in West Clare of good agricultural land now in the hands of landlords and lying untilled, but which, if made over to tenants, would soon become valuable as productive areas; and whether the Congested Districts Board will immediately take steps to make the transfer indicated with regard to all such estates or, if their mode of action be too dilatory, whether he will take other steps to meet the situation by which the tenants may enter into possession as soon as possible?
§ 33. Mr. BYRNEasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland if he will consider the advisability of steps being taken for breaking up the grass lands of Ireland for the purpose of food production; if so, will he see that the evicted tenants who are not yet reinstated in their holdings will get preference in any distribution of land; and if the Government will guarantee a supply of seeds for food production?
§ Mr. DUKEAs I have stated on several occasions during the past few days, the question of food supply is being dealt with 1597 by the Irish Departments in consultation with the Board of Trade and the Food Controller. Such further action, including legislation, as may be considered necessary, will be taken with as little delay as possible.
§ Mr. LYNCHWould the right hon. Gentleman define the term "dealt with?" Is it not a fact that there are thousands of acres of available land which might be employed immediately for the production of food?
§ Mr. DUKEThe matter is not one which the Chief Secretary can settle by waving a wand. It has to be done through consultation with practical people to give effect to what has been decided upon by those who understand the matter.
§ Mr. LYNCHWill the Chief Secretary give a strong lead in the matter, or is it a case of "Dukus" a non ducendo?
§ Mr. DUKEIf the hon. Member knew anything about the internal administration of Ireland I am sure his sense of fair-play would prevent his asking such a question.