§ 45. Colonel Sir Edward Ruggles-Briseasked the Prime Minister the policy of His Majesty's Government in regard to the nature and extent of the services to be rendered by the home producer of foodstuffs in time of war; and whether he will indicate the steps to be taken in time of peace to enable the home producer to meet the national needs if called upon in an emergency?
§ The Prime Minister (Mr. Baldwin)As I stated in reply to my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Louth (Lieut.-Colonel Heneage) on 16th March, the Government are considering every aspect of food supply, including home production, in relation to Defence, but I am unable at present to make a statement on the subject.
§ Sir E. Ruggles-BriseIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that home agriculture is not so able as it was in 1914 to respond to demands made upon it?
§ Mr. George GriffithsIs not the right hon. Gentleman also aware that when farmers have made application to the Potato Marketing Board to be allowed to grow more potatoes they have been told that they will he fined £500 if they do?