§ 48. Lieutenant W. Shepherdasked the Minister of Agriculture what steps he is taking to ensure the manufacture of agricultural machinery in this country which it has been previously necessary to import to the extent of about£25,000,000 per year.
§ The Minister of Agriculture (Mr. Thomas Williams)Total supplies of agricultural machinery in this country are of the order of£25 millions a year at retail values, but imports now account for less than one-sixth of this total. A number of firms have already made plans for additional or new production in this country, and I have an assurance from the British Agricultural Engineering Industry that its members will do all they can to increase supplies both to meet home requirements and to establish a substantial export trade. I shall continue to give all the help I can.
§ Lieutenant ShepherdWill the right hon. Gentleman say whether there is consultation between the National Farmers' Union and the manufacturers to see that the right type of goods is produced?
§ Mr. WilliamsThere is constant consultation.