HC Deb 03 March 1947 vol 434 cc26-7
52. Mr. Hurd

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he has obtained recent information from county A.E.C.s about farmers' needs of new machinery, particularly combine harvesters and potato lifters, for this year's harvest; and what action he is taking to meet these needs.

Mr. T. Williams

Recent information has been received from county war agricultural executive committees about farmers' needs in 1947 for certain types. of agricultural machinery including combined harvesters, but not potato lifters. To meet these needs imports will, in some cases, supplement home production, which is being in all cases increased as much as possible.

Mr. Hurd

In view of the great importance of getting the potato crop lifted in good order, will the right hon. Gentleman make special inquiries about the possible greater use of potato lifters?

Mr. Williams

As the hon. Gentleman is aware, potato lifting machines are not subject to county executive distribution, and, therefore, detailed figures are not available for that particular implement.

Mr. Hurd

Is the Minister aware that the trouble is that the farmers cannot get them?

Mr. Williams

I assure the hon. Gentleman we are doing our best to prevail upon manufacturers to speed up, as far. as they have steel and labour allocated to them.

Mr. Nicholson

Will the right hon Gentleman do his best to remove any justification for the prevalent idea that undue influence is also exercised in the allocation?

Mr. Williams

May I disabuse the hon. Member's mind, if he refers to allocations by county executive committees? Potato lifters are not subject to allocation at all.

Mr. Collins

Are any changes contemplated in the regulations permitting the export of agricultural machinery at the present time?

Mr. Williams

Perhaps my hon. Friend would put that question to my right hon. and learned Friend the President of the Board of Trade.