HC Deb 21 February 1917 vol 90 cc1326-7
60. Mr. P. WHITE

asked the nature and terms of the arrangement made by the War Office with farmers for breaking up grass lands for the growing of oats; whether it applies to the whole of the United Kingdom; and, if not, to what part of it?

Mr. FORSTER

I will send a copy of the form of contract to my hon. Friend if he so desires. The organisation was intended to deal with the whole of the United Kingdom. In view of all the circumstances it has been decided that we should no longer be justified in maintaining a separate organisation to stimulate the product of oats required for Army needs.

Mr. FABER

Is this appointment which was made being discontinued?

Mr. FORSTER

Yes. As we are no longer justified in maintaining the organisation we are no longer justified in maintaining the gentleman who is in charge of it.

Sir G. YOUNGER

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the' War Office demands an expenditure of 25s. an acre on artificial manures for oats on broken-up grass land? Is he aware that we in Scotland are suffering from too much fertility, and that the expenditure of 25s. is totally unnecessary?