HC Deb 18 June 1936 vol 313 cc1171-2
59. Mr. DAY

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether any special action is being taken by his Department at the present time to increase agricultural productivity?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Ramsbotham)

The agricultural policy of the Government as a whole is directed towards increased productivity, and my right hon. Friend is not clear as to what special action the hon. Member has in mind.

Mr. DAY

Is anything being done to increase the number of acres cultivated?

Mr. MACQUISTEN

Does the Parliamentary Secretary think it will materially increase production, if the farmers nave huge staffs of officials loaded on to them as a result of all the boards that have been set up?

Mr. GALLACHER

Will not the hon. Gentleman persuade the Government to relieve the farmers of tithe payments, and thus encourage agriculture?