HC Deb 15 December 1947 vol 445 cc1449-50
33. Mr. Hurd

asked the Minister of Food if the bigger acreage of potatoes which farmers are being asked to grow in 1948 takes into account an increased demand for potatoes as other foods become scarcer.

Mr. Strachey

We wish to see the very maximum possible acreage of potatoes grown in 1948. My right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture has already given farmers as additional inducements an acreage payment of £12 an acre for the first 10 acres, instead of £8 and a substantial increase in prices.

Mr. Hurd

Could the Minister say to what extent we are expecting to eat more potatoes next winter?

Mr. Strachey

That depends on the general food supplies, the acreage which is planted and the yield from that acreage.

Mr. Hurd

What is the intention?

Mr. Strachey

The intention is the maximum, as I have already stated.