§ 46. Mr. Bossomasked the Minister of Agriculture if he is satisfied that there will be a sufficient quantity of feeding-stuffs available this year for the farmers to reach the target set by him or for the food required by the nation.
The Minister of Agriculture (Mr. Thomas Williams)The best estimate we can make of the rationed feedingstuffs available in the coming 12 months was given by my hon. Friend the Parliamentary Secretary in a supplementary reply to a Question by my hon. Friend the Member for Rugby (Mr. J. Johnson) on 22nd March. Provided that our own crops this year are not unduly small these rationed supplies should enable current objectives to be reached.
§ Mr. BossomWould the Minister consult the National Farmers' Union, particularly in Kent, because they are not at all convinced that they will be able to reach the target which has been set them?
Mr. WilliamsI am sure that the hon. Member is aware that we are in constant consultation with the National Farmers' Union.
§ Mr. Joynson-HicksIn view of the many qualifications in the right hon. Gentleman's reply and the doubt that the feedingstuffs can be obtained, will he obtain reserve feedingstuffs in case of need?