HC Deb 07 June 1951 vol 488 c1219
49. Mr. Dodds

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he is aware that this year farmers will be deprived of the customary help of many gypsies who for the first time will remain on their winter camping sites because of the developing practice of preventing those who leave from returning to them when harvesting is over; and what action he proposes to take to ensure that the necessary labour will be available.

The Minister of Agriculture (Mr. Thomas Williams)

I am not aware that gypsies who are accustomed to engage in agricultural work over the harvesting season are being prevented from doing so this year. Reports from C.A.E.C. generally are that many gypsies have already come forward for agricultural work this year.

Mr. Dodds

Will my right hon. Friend consult with the Minister of Local Government and Planning, whose officials during recent weeks heard quite a lot about this problem, and endeavour to find a satisfactory solution to one of the unsatisfactory aspects of the British way of life?

Mr. Williams

If my hon. Friend can be at all helpful in securing that gypsies and seasonal workers can be made available we shall be glad to consider the matter.