§ 63. Mr. Goochasked the Minister of Agriculture if he is satisfied that the tar gets set the various counties for potatoes and wheat next year will be realised; and will he indicate the acreages of both already secured through the war agricultural executive committees.
§ Mr. T. WilliamsWhile preliminary inquiries suggest that in some counties the targets for both wheat and potatoes have not so far been secured, I am hopeful that the renewed drive now being undertaken by the county committees, with the fullest co-operation of the National Farmers' Union, will enable us to attain the desired objectives. In the case of wheat, the prolonged drought has, in some areas, unavoidably prevented autumn sowings to the full extent that farmers intended, but they are being encouraged in every way to sow the maximum practicable acreage of spring wheat.
§ Mr. GoochIs my right hon. Friend aware that there is a growing feeling in the countryside that he will not get his targets without direction?
§ Mr. WilliamsI am satisfied that that is not the general view of county executive committees. But if we felt that any county was letting the country down, we should not hesitate to use the power we have, although I am satisfied from my contacts with county executive committees that there will be no necessity at all for direction.
§ Mr. CollinsAt what date does my right hon. Friend expect to make a decision on this matter in regard to possible deficiencies and any action which may have to be taken?
§ Mr. WilliamsWe have asked for further returns of cropping plans to be supplied by the middle of December, and after that we shall take our decision.