HC Deb 26 March 1941 vol 370 cc581-2
45. Mr. De la Bére

asked the Prime Minister whether, with a view to greater co-ordination, and in view of the already close interlocking of the two Departments, he will reconsider the creation of a Ministry of Agriculture and Food to take the place of the two separate Ministries which now exist?

The Lord Privy Seal (Mr. Attlee)

I would refer my hon. Friend to the Answer given to him on this subject on 18th February last.

Mr. De la Bére

Is my right hon. Friend aware of the vital importance of the unification of these two Departments with a view to organising the part which agriculture shall play in the national economy? Will not the Government really give proper consideration to these matters since the part agriculture plays in the national economy is one of the most important questions that we shall have to face immediately the war is ended—and now too? May I have an Answer? My right hon. Friend does not seem to be giving us any enlightenment on these matters.