HC Deb 15 December 1947 vol 445 cc1454-5
50. Mr. Gooch

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he is aware that the Norfolk War Agricultural Executive Committee have been requested to erect six new hostels to accommodate members of the Women's Land Army; and will he ensure that the building of houses for permanent farm workers takes precedence over this project.

Mr. T. Williams

No request has been made to the Norfolk W.A.E.C. to erect six new hostels for the W.L.A. Ways and means of providing accommodation for additional W.L.A. workers are under examination, and, before any decision is taken about new building, the effect on the provision of houses for farmworkers will certainly be taken into account.

Mr. Gooch

Is the Minister aware that some Norfolk rural district councils have been told to curtail their building programmes in the villages? Much as the work of the Women's Land Army is appreciated, they will be leaving the land later, whereas the permanent workers will stay if they ever get decent housing accommodation.

Mr. Williams

I cannot believe that any rural district council has had its housing programme curtailed for the sake of the Women's Land Army.