HC Deb 07 July 1938 vol 338 cc587-8
75. Mrs. Tate

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is now in a position to lay before the House his plans for the acceleration and increase of home production of food in time of war?

Mr. Ramsbotham

Plans for increasing the acreage of arable land in this country in the event of war have been prepared and steps have been taken to enable the necessary central and local organisation to be set up without delay. The plans have, of course, had to be framed on a variety of hypotheses as to the circumstances of any future war and could not, therefore, be published.

Mrs. Tate

Can we have an assurance that landowners, farmers and farm workers have been advised of these plans and are willing to co-operate in them?

Mr. Ramsbotham

That is a separate subject.

Mr. Thurtle

Is there any conflict of opinion between the hon. Member's right hon. Friend and the Prime Minister in regard to this matter?

Mr. Ramsbotham

None whatever.