56. Mr. De la Bèreasked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in view of the drastic cuts in our imports, including food, which have now become necessary owing to the economic plight of this country, he will now make a fresh statement regarding the permanent position which British agriculture must occupy in the national economy.
§ Mr. G. BrownMy right hon. Friend hopes to make a statement on this subject when seeking the approval of this House to the Order that he proposes to make under Section 95 of the Agriculture Act, 1947, to enable directions to be served, where necessary, to restrain farmers from putting down an undue proportion of their land to grass.
Mr. De la BèreIs the Minister aware that one does not assist in preventing farmers putting down an undue proportion of their land to grass if they are not given the necessary implements for their tractors; and why is it that we are still exporting implements for tractors which are urgently needed at home?
§ Mr. BrownI gave the answer to that very fully in the House the week before last, if the hon. Member cares to refer to it.