53. Major Thorneycroftasked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in view of the importance which he attaches to the increased production of spring cereals, he will consider making it compulsory on all farmers to disinfect their seed according to the best modern practice?
Mr. HudsonI am only too anxious that all oat and barley seed should be dressed this spring with a mercury dressing to prevent disease and ensure maximum yield, but it is better, I think, to rely on propaganda and advice rather than compulsion. I have asked the war agricultural executive committees to carry out campaigns to this effect, and a great deal is being done.