HC Deb 10 November 1920 vol 134 cc1180-1
70. Mr. PENNEFATHER

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture the percentage of decline in the acreage of wheat in Scotland and Ireland for 1920 as compared with 1919; and can he give any explanation of the decline?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of AGRICULTURE (Sir Arthur Boscawen)

According to the preliminary statements published by the Departments concerned, the decrease in the wheat acreage in 1920, as compared with 1919, was 31.4 per cent, in Scotland, and 28.7 per cent, in Ireland. In the case of the corresponding decrease (15.5 per cent.) in England and Wales, the growing of crops other than wheat has largely been due to the better price which could be obtained for them in the market. I am not in a position to speak for Scotland or Ireland, and would suggest that my hon. Friend should obtain information from the Scottish and Irish Departments of Agriculture.

Major HOWARD

Is it not the fact that the decline is on account of restrictions imposed on wheat by the Food Control Office?

Sir A. BOSCAWEN

I think my hon. and gallant Friend must address that to the Food Ministry.

Lieut.-Colonel MURRAY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is due in Scotland to the farmers pursuing ordinary economic farming operations?