HC Deb 18 January 1944 vol 396 c41
Major Neven-Spence

On a question of Business, may I ask the Leader of the House whether an early date will be given for a Debate on the Motion on Agriculture standing in the names of myself and many other Hon. Members?

[That this House is of opinion that the recent alterations in farm prices make inadequate provision for the payment by the great majority of farmers of the increased wages; that an unfair burden is placed on such farmers; and that farm prices should consequently be reconsidered forthwith.]

The Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Eden)

My hon. and gallant Friend is aware that the usual practice is to announce Business on the third Sitting Day. I think, however, that it might be for the convenience of the House if I said now that the Government propose to give facilities for a Debate on Agriculture in the next series of Sittings. I should add that we shall have to take Government Business. I cannot undertake to take the Motion because there is much Government Business to be taken. There is a Vote of Credit and we might have the Debate on the Report stage of that Vote. In any event, I will see that the Debate is wide enough to meet the wishes of hon. Members.