HC Deb 20 January 1944 vol 396 c359
50. Mr. Eccles

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is satisfied that the labour force allocated to agriculture will be sufficient to maintain the food production of this country, especially of milk.

Mr. Hudson

Provided that a sufficient number of volunteers come forward to help with seasonal work, and given reasonably favourable weather conditions, I hope that it may be possible to maintain food production at present levels with the labour available in 1944.

Mr. Eccles

Have we any chance of getting more Italian prisoners?

Mr. Hudson

I hope so.

Mr. Price

Is there not a shortage in many districts now of skilled cattlemen, which represents a danger to the milk supply?

Mr. Hudson

I am fully aware of that fact, and that is one of the reasons why the Minister of Labour has agreed to reopening of recruitment for the Land Army, specifically directed to getting more milkers.