HC Deb 02 February 1948 vol 446 c1464
41. Mr. Joynson-Hicks

asked the Minister of Supply if he is aware that garden forks and spades are virtually unobtainable in the shops of West Sussex; and what steps he is taking to enable allotment holders and gardeners to prepare their ground for food production.

75. Mr. Lambert

asked the Minister of Supply whether he is aware that manure forks are practically unobtainable in Devonshire; and what steps he has taken to make these forks available.

Mr. G. R. Strauss

There has been some difficulty in obtaining these tools, but arrangements have now been made with the trade to increase the total supplies available. If, on investigation, it is found that there is a special shortage in West Sussex and Devon, we will ask the trade to send further supplies there.

Mr. Joynson-Hicks

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is an acute shortage in West Sussex, and will he state whether this is the result of the Government giving the highest priority to agriculture products?

Mr. Strauss

I was not aware that there was a shortage in West Sussex, but I am investigating it immediately.

Brigadier Peto

Could not the right hon. Gentleman answer Question No. 72 on the Paper at the same time?