Agricultural Labour and Machinery

HC Deb 11 November 1947 vol 444 cc189-91

32. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware of the shortage of labour on the land, the difficulties that are likely to arise when German prisoners are withdrawn, and the need for an adequate supply of agricultural implements and machinery; and what steps are being taken to ensure that adequate research is being carried on to secure new agricultural machinery which will assist the farmers to reach their target of production.

Mr. Woodburn

I am not aware of any shortage of labour on the land at present in Scotland, and I am hopeful that any deficiencies created by the repatriation of prisoners of war will be made good. The Government are doing everything possible to accelerate the production and delivery of agricultural machinery, and have doubled the allocation of steel for that purpose. Research into the development and use of agricultural machinery is being urgently pursued.

Mr. Hughes

Is it proposed to carry on research into the development of agricultural machinery in Scotland?

Mr. Woodburn

Does the hon. Member mean at the mechanical engineering station?

Mr. Hughes

Yes.

Mr. Woodburn

They are dealing there with a rather different type of machinery.

Commander Galbraith

What steps is the right hon. Gentleman taking to provide the prime essential for increased agricultural production—houses? Will he say what number he intends to provide?

Mr. Woodburn

Yes. We are proposing to provide 5,000 for the agricultural population in Scotland. As the hon. and gallant Gentleman knows, miners and agricultural workers are getting preference in the construction of new houses.

Mr. Stokes

Does the right hon. Gentleman think that doubling the amount of steel for agricultural machinery will be sufficient, in view of the fact that exports have been put up 400 per cent.?

Mr. Woodburn

The two things have not much connection. [HON. MEMBERS: "Oh."] The amount of steel to be allocated to the agricultural engineers depends on their capacity to make use of it, and that is certainly as much as they can use at the present time.

Mr. Snadden

Will the right hon. Gentleman remember that he will never solve the long-term problem of the shortage of labour on the land until the Government depart from their present narrow policy with regard to the tied cottage?