HC Deb 12 November 1945 vol 415 c1748
61. Major Conant

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether prisoners of war are available for the clearing of woodlands.

Mr. T. Williams

At the present time the prisoners of war allocated to my Department are fully occupied on urgent farm work. Opportunities may, however, arise during the winter of making small numbers available for clearing woodlands.

Major Conant

Does the Minister appreciate that, unless the woodlands are prepared for replanting, the Minister's difficulties will steadily increase? Would it not be better to get on with it now?

Mr. Williams

I fully appreciate the hon. and gallant Member's point of view, but he will also be fully aware of the necessity for lifting all the potatoes and the beet before we divert labour.