HC Deb 28 June 1948 vol 452 cc1821-2
29. Mr. A. Edward Davies

asked the Minister of Food whether it is intended to introduce a crop rotation system as part of a general food production policy in East Africa where groundnuts are being at present developed.

Mr. Strachey

Yes, Sir. A crop rotation system was recommended by the East African Groundnuts Mission and is described in the White Paper Command 7030. The Overseas Food Corporation informs me that experiments already carried out at Kongwa show that sunflower, maize, grass leys, castor bean, soya bean and sorghum grains may be included in the rotation.

Mr. Davies

Is it not a fact that special measures have been taken by the Corporation to offset, by special methods of tilling, the difficulties arising from monoculture?

Mr. Strachey

Yes, Sir. Of course, a satisfactory system of crop rotation is one of those methods which certainly will be essential.

Mr. Collins

In view of the fact that there are to be grass leys, and presumably the green fronds from the groundnuts can be used, is it proposed to establish cattle rearing with this crop rotation?

Mr. Strachey

It is possible, but my hon. Friend will recognise that it is a matter for experiment in these tropical conditions.