HC Deb 17 February 1930 vol 235 cc918-9
55. Mr. W. B. TAYLOR

asked the Minister of Agriculture the acreage of arable or corn-growing land which has gone down to grass or out of cultivation in the county of Norfolk during the last four years?

Mr. N. BUXTON

As the reply consists of a number of figures, I propose, with the permission of my hon. Friend, to circulate it in the OFFICIAL RFPORT.

Mr. TAYLOR

Having regard to the gravity of the crisis in arable agriculture in this country, will my right hon. Friend press the need for early legislation?

Mr. BUXTON

That should be the subject of a separate question.

Earl WINTERTON

In issuing the figures, will the right hon. Gentleman state how much of the decrease is due to the great decrease in autumn ploughing that took place last October and November in consequence of the absence of policy of the present Government?

Following is the reply:

provision so as to ensure that this agricultural land is less liable to be flooded?

Mr. N. BUXTON

I am aware that serious flooding has taken place in this district on many occasions, and in the last three years the Commissioners of Crown Lands have spent £1,700 on repairing and strengthening the river banks and improving the drainage of the land. I am inquiring into the possibility of making better provision for the prevention of floods, and will communicate the result of my inquiry to the hon. Member.

Mr. WARDLAW-MILNE

Is it not a fact that the right hon. Gentleman has ample money at his disposal for such expenditure?

Mr. BUXTON

No application has been made for a grant.