HC Deb 28 June 1948 vol 452 c1838
58. Mr. York

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is satisfied that the production of ploughshares is sufficient to prevent a recurrence of the hold up in Autumn ploughing.

Mr. T. Williams

The present rate of production is much greater than a year ago and is still being substantially increased. There should be sufficient ploughshares for the Autumn, provided that production is maintained as planned, that distribution is even and conditions for ploughing are not abnormal.

Mr. York

Is the Minister aware that the same complacency was held in his Department last year, and that the same warnings were also given? Will he make quite sure that there is no shortage of steel allocation to hold up the production of ploughshares?

Mr. Williams

I can assure the hon. Gentleman that there has not been any complacency and that there is no shortage of steel for making ploughshares.