59. Mr. Baldwinasked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in view of the fact that all the wheat produced in this country is needed for human consumption, he will reconsider the decision to reduce the deficiency payment to farmers for the 1946 crop by £2 per acre.
§ Mr. T. WilliamsNo, Sir. The reduction in the acreage payment was made in consideration of the withdrawal of compulsory directions to grow wheat for the 1946 harvest.
Mr. BaldwinDoes not the Minister agree that this is not the time, when costs are rising, to decrease farmers' income by reducing the acreage payment?
§ Mr. WilliamsNo, Sir.
§ 63. Mr. Turtonasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he will obtain an estimate from the county committees as to acreage of autumn wheat planted this season.
Mr. T. WiliamsThe planting of wheat is still in progress in many part of the country, and I hope that in view of the serious food situation, farmers will continue to plant as much wheat as possible on all suitable land, both now and in the spring. Returns of the acreage planted 1748 up to 4th December will be made by farmers on that date.
Mr. BaldwinWould not the right hon. Gentleman encourage farmers by reinstating the acreage payment he is now taking off?
§ Mr. WilliamsNo, Sir.