HC Deb 09 May 1938 vol 335 cc1221-2
20. Mr. De la Bère

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is now able to make a further statement of Government policy in relation to the development and increase of home-grown food supplies?

Mr. W. S. Morrison

No, Sir.

Mr. De la Bère

In view of the possible shortage of world food supplies, how long is the progress of home cultivation to be delayed? Will the right hon. Gentleman give me some answer to that?

Mr. Morrison

The whole policy of the Government in agricultural matters is designed to secure an increase in production, and it has achieved that in many important respects.

Mr. De la Bère

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that the half measures which are being taken are both futile and fantastic? Do it now—grow more food!

Mr. Morrison

I am not aware of that.

Mr. Thurtle

Is not the Minister aware that the whole position is thoroughly unsatisfactory?

21. Mr. De la Bère

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether it is now the intention of the Government to introduce a Bill to amend the Agricultural Credits Act, 1928, with a view to the creation of an agricultural finance corporation, or some similar body, based on the same principle as the railway finance corporation, with an authorised and issued capital in £1 shares of £100, with powers to issue debenture stock, guaranteed as to principal and interest by the Treasury, with a view to providing long-term credits to assist the increased production of homegrown foodstuffs?

Mr. Morrison

I have nothing to add to the answer given to a similar question by my hon. Friend on 15th June, 1937.

Mr. De la Bère

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the farmers cannot plan for future development without cheap money, and is he further aware that it is over two years since I asked him questions on this matter, and that nothing has been done?

Mr. Morrison

I would not agree that nothing has been done. The matter has been under consideration.

Mr. Leach

Is the Minister not aware that these curt answers to the hon. Member are in the nature of cruelty to children?

Mr. De la Bère

In view of the very unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I shall raise the whole matter on the Adjournment.

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