HC Deb 20 May 1919 vol 116 cc204-5
82. Captain R. TERRELL

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture whether his Department is considering the effect of the pro posed eight-hours' day on steam-ploughing; and whether he is aware that if the proposal is introduced it would mean that owing to the reduced output the cost of steam-ploughing would have to be in creased something like 45 to 50 per cent., which would be fatal to the trade and a serious blow to corn production?

Sir A. BOSCAWEN

The Board recognise the serious difficulty which would arise in attempting to apply compulsorily, a limitation of hours in steam-ploughing. The hon. Member should wait for the introduction of the Bill now being prepared to give effect to the recommenda- tions of the Industrial Conference, which recognised that exceptions to any general rate may be necessary in special cases.