HC Deb 17 February 1947 vol 433 c789
53. Mr. Dye

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is taking any special steps to secure an increased acreage of linseed in 1947.

Mr. T. Williams

Yes, Sir. Proposals designed to encourage farmers to grow additional quantities of this valuable crop are under consideration. and I hope to be able to make an announcement in the near future.

Mr. Dye

Will my right hon Friend, in view of the fact that there is likely to be a late season, with other crops being late, consider the possibility of using the very large acreage of land which has not keen ploughed up in the past for this particular purpose?

Mr. Williams

Yes, Sir; I can assure my hon Friend that that is under active consideration.

Mr. York

May I ask the Minister if, before he gives any encouragement to the growing of this crop, he will ensure that there are sufficient machines with which to harvest it?