63. Mr. De la Bèreasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he will make pro vision whereby the W.A.E.Cs. through out the country are enabled to increase the number of agricultural implements available for hire by farmers, especially reapers, binders and potato spinners, since the implements are often not avail able when the weather is favourable; and whether he will consider reducing the high charges for hire and ensure that all implements are thoroughly serviced by competent agricultural engineers before being despatched from the depots.
§ Mr. T. WilliamsI am not aware that the numbers of binders and potato spinners in the hands of war agricultural executive committees are insufficient to meet hiring requirements, but, if the hon. Member has in mind some particular local shortage, perhaps he will furnish me with details. I cannot agree to reduce the charges for the hire of implements, which are designed merely to cover costs. The servicing of implements will continue to be carried out to the highest practicable standard.
Mr. De la BèreIs the House really to understand that the Minister of Agricultural is seriously saying that there is no shortage of agricultural implements in the country, when every farmer knows that there is? Further, is not the Minister aware that these implements, when not properly serviced before being sent out, do a great deal of mischief to food production?
§ Mr. WilliamsIf the hon. Member will be good enough to draw my attention to any specific local shortage, I will look into the matter.