HC Deb 11 February 1947 vol 433 cc161-2
5. Mr. McKie

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the trading losses or profits for 1944, 1945 and 1946 on the four farms owned and run by the Department of Agriculture for Scotland at Dunragit, Wigtownshire.

Mr. Westwood

The trading accounts for the farms at Dunragit under the management of the Department of Agriculture for Scotland show losses of approximately £4,790 for 1944 and £10,010 for 1945. During these years, the enterprises suffered from various adverse factors—

Sir T. Moore

The weather again?

Mr. Westwood

—including several severe outbreaks of contagious mastitis which necessitated the disposal of a considerable number of cows. The position generally has now improved and the accounts for 1946 show a profit of approximately £3,310.

Mr. McKie

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman, in view of the very serious statement he has just made—[HON. MEMBERS: "Oh"]—yes, very serious—if he will keep this matter constantly under review, and whether he will consider returning these farms to private ownership at the earliest possible moment?

Mr. Westwood

I will certainly keep under constant review anything which comes under my administration and shall do my best to increase the profit if possible.

Sir T. Moore

Profit?

Commander Galbraith

May I ask whether the accounts of these farms are available so that hon. Members may study the details?

Mr. Westwood

I shall be prepared to consider that point.

Mr. Leslie Hale

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the House will view with great satisfaction this very successful Socialist enterprise compared with the losses which occurred under a predominantly Conservative Administration?

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