HC Deb 18 January 1945 vol 407 cc356-7
48. Brigadier-General Clifton Brown

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is aware that many schemes for providing farm premises with electric current are now being held up by war agricultural committees; and whether, in cases where material is available and contracts signed, he will now modify the Orders by which war agricultural committees appear to be bound to the detriment of milk and food production.

Mr. T. Williams

County war agricultural executive committees were informed recently that applications for installing electricity on farms should be supported where the supply would result in increased production or economy in labour, provided the outlay was reasonable having regard to the use which would be made of the supply. My right hon. Friend is not aware that proposed installations falling within these terms are being held up by committees. The only restrictions on the installation of electricity on farms are those imposed by the limitation of supply of material and labour.

Brigadier-General Clifton Brown

Cannot the right hon. Gentleman use his influence with the Ministry to think a little more about food production?

Mr. Williams

The hon. and gallant Gentleman will be aware that electricity undertakers are not obliged to consult agricultural executive committees.