§ 26. Mr. J. Morganasked the Minister of Agriculture when he proposes to out line in detail the steps he desires farmers and others to take, to take advantage of the present favourable season for certain food protection measures?
§ Sir R. Dorman-SmithI have already broadcast a general indication of the measures which the Government wish farmers to take, and in particular I have urged them to plough up at least 10 per cent. of their permanent grassland and sow it to suitable crops for next year's harvest. The detailed application of the Government's plans is a matter for the County War Executive Committees, who will be responsible for seeing that production is increased in their counties.
§ Mr. MorganIs the Minister aware that the question deals with the present situation and that many farmers are unable even to get feeding stuffs, because their credit position with the merchants is so unfortunate, and such matters as that? Has he nothing to offer them at this time to enable them to take action?
§ Sir R. Dorman-SmithI think the hon. Member is assuming rather a lot. Obviously, these questions are definitely under consideration, and I would ask him to remember that when all is said and done we have not been at war so very very long, and one cannot expect everything to be changed over absolutely at once. It may take weeks.