§ 51. Mr. Walkdenasked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in view of the impending absence of seeds hitherto supplied by Holland and other Continental countries now under enemy control, he is arranging for adequate quantities to be grown and conserved in the British Isles in readiness for winter and spring sowings?
§ The Minister of Agriculture (Mr. R. S. Hudson)The seed position is being kept under continuous review, in the light of changing circumstances, and steps are being taken by the National Farmers Union, in collaboration with the seed trade, to increase the supply of seeds grown in this country. In addition, market gardeners, allotment holders and private gardeners, have been advised to leave a proportion of their growing crops, 417 particularly peas and beans, to mature for seed to meet their full requirements next season.
§ Mr. WalkdenWill the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that seed grown in Ireland is a very good change for British soil and vice versa, and will he get into contact with the two Governments in Ireland with a view to obtaining their co-operation in this matter of seed production and exchange?
§ Mr. HudsonIreland is not the only country overseas which sends us seeds.
§ Mr. R. GibsonWill the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that seed from Scotland gives splendid results when sown in England?