HC Deb 28 June 1948 vol 452 cc1834-5
51. Sir W. Smithers

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he is aware of the shortage of ploughshares and other farming equipment and of repair facilities in the county of Kent; and, in view of the vital necessity to obtain maximum food production, what steps is he taking to remedy this position.

The Minister of Agriculture (Mr. Thomas Williams)

I am not aware that farmers in Kent are having any special difficulty in meeting their present needs for ploughshares or most items of farming equipment, and, according to my information, repair facilities in the county are adequate. Production of ploughshares is much greater than it was last autumn, and supplies should be enough to meet current needs, although not yet sufficient to enable dealers to build up stocks. Some items of agricultural machinery are scarce generally, but everything possible is being done to increase supplies. Kent farmers are receiving a fair share of these scarce items.

Sir W. Smithers

In view of the vital necessity for the maximum production of food, is this not further evidence of the folly of State control? Will not the right hon. Gentleman give freedom and a No.1 priority to the issue of this equipment in the interests of food production?

Mr. Williams

The hon. Gentleman cannot be aware that agricultural machinery is being turned out this year at double the rate of even last year.

Sir W. Smithers

It is not enough.

Mr. Joynson-Hicks

Is the right hon. Gentleman prepared still to assure the House that the essential needs of agriculture in regard to machinery are receiving priority over exports?

Mr. Williams

Yes, Sir. The only shortages, as hon. Members are aware, are crawler tractors, heavy ploughs, combine harvesters and one-man pick-up balers, for all of which we have been entirely dependent upon imports up to recent years.

Mr. John Morrison

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in the South-West there is already a recurring shortage of ploughshares?

Mr. Williams

I can assure the hon. Gentleman that no such complaints have been brought to my notice.