HC Deb 19 March 1923 vol 161 cc2080-1
65. Mr. BUXTON

further asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he will state the proportion of wheat grown in Great Britain to imported wheat in the years 1913, 1917, 1918, 1919, and 1922?

Sir R. SANDERS

As the reply is in the form of a statistical statement, I propose, with the permission of the hon. Member, to circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the statement promised:

Estimated production of wheat in the United Kingdom, net imports of wheat (including wheat meal and flour expressed as grain) into the United Kingdom, and the proportion of home produced wheat to net imports, in the years 1913, 1917, 1918, 1919 and 1922:

any scheme of credit facilities in order to assist farmers and others engaged in the agricultural industry, he will in- clude special provisions for making loans and advances to small landholders and settlers under the Government land settlement schemes?

Sir R. SANDERS

Under the Land Settlement (Facilities) Act, 1919, county councils are empowered to make loans to statutory smallholders in cases where facilities for obtaining loans from a cooperative credit society are inadequate. It does not seem necessary, therefore, to deal specially with their needs in the proposed Credit Bill.

Major PAGET

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider lowering the rate of interest at present proposed?

Sir R. SANDERS

That will be considered when the Bill comes in.

Mr. MILLAR

Will the right hon. Gentleman be prepared to consider other smallholders who are not under the scheme?

Sir R. SANDERS

I think the hon. Member had better wait for the introduction of the Bill.