§ .57. Major WHELERasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the large decrease in the acreage now under wheat as compared with the acreage of wheat-sown land in 1918, and in view of the general dissatisfaction of farmers with the recent pronouncement of possible wheat prices for 1921, and the probable further diminution of the area under wheat next winter, he will state what percentage of the total wheat required for the food of the people of the United Kingdom he proposes should be grown in the United Kingdom?
§ The PRIME MINISTERNo attempt has been made to lay down the exact proportions of the total wheat requirements which should be grown in the United Kingdom, but it is considered highly desirable in view of the lessons of the late war and other general considerations, that we should reduce our dependence upon over-seas supplies so far as is reasonably practicable.
§ Major WHELERDoes the right hon. Gentleman realise that the effect of the pronouncement just made will be that a serious position will arise?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI was not aware of that, but if there are any representations that my hon. Friend has to make about it I shall be very glad to take them into account. I take a very keen interest in this matter.
§ Mr. HOUSTONIs it not much better to pay higher prices to the British farmer than to pay excessive prices to the foreigner?