HC Deb 04 August 1943 vol 391 cc2298-9
60. Sir John Mellor

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food what engagements his Ministry have made for drying the grain of Warwickshire farmers who have purchased combined harvesters; and how will these engagements be carried out in 1943?

Mr. Mabane

All millable or potentially millable wheat will be accepted by flour millers and conditioned if necessary. My Department has aso undertaken to purchase all millable or potentially millable barley for which a market cannot otherwise be found and will make any arrangements necessary for conditioning barley so purchased. In both cases the grower must sell through an approved buyer and any grower who intends to use a combined harvester should at once notify the approved buyer to whom he normally sells so that the latter can apply if necessary to my Department for assistance in disposing of the grain.

Sir J. Mellor

Is my hon. Friend aware that a number of farmers were refused permission to purchase drying plant on the grounds that the Stratford-on-Avon plant would be ready for this year's harvest? Does he accept full responsibility for drying this grain?

Mr. Mabane

Yes, Sir.

Mr. Higgs

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the Stratford-on-Avon plant will not be service before 1st September, and that the harvest will be gathered by that time?

Mr. Mabane

Yes, Sir.