§ 50. Colonel Ropnerasked the Minister of Agriculture if he is aware that the method of lime distribution by lorry, practised in many farming districts, is, in general, expensive and unsatisfactory in results; and whether, having regard to the importance of a proper spread and the desirability of not wasting the Government subsidy, he will consider encouraging A.E.Cs. to acquire up-to-date lime dis- 1692 tributing vehicles fitted with hoppers which could be made available to farmers on hire terms.
§ Mr. T. WilliamsI am aware of the disadvantages attaching to the distribution of lime from lorries. A substantial proportion of the lime now used is spread mechanically, often by contractors, and the proportion is increasing. I will, however, bear in mind the suggestion contained in the last part of the Question.
§ Colonel RopnerCan the right hon. Gentleman say how many of these vehicles are produced in this country a year? Is the supply adequate to meet the demand?
§ Mr. WilliamsI could not give the figure without notice.