§ 47. Mr. Deedesasked the Minister of Agriculture what stage has been reached in the abolition of the Farm Machinery Service; and whether, in the changed circumstances, this policy is being reconsidered.
§ Mr. G. BrownIt has been found possible to reduce the total strength of the machinery services operated by county agricultural executive committees by about a half since 1948, but no general decision has been taken to discontinue them altogether. They are still being maintained so far as is necessary for essential work that cannot be done in any other way.
§ Mr. DeedesCan the hon. Gentleman say at what level they are to be maintained? Will it still be 50 per cent.?
§ Mr. BrownNo, it will be at the level necessary to secure that work which cannot be done in any other way is done in that way.