HC Deb 18 February 1954 vol 523 c2141
32. Mr. Slater

asked the Minister of Agriculture the number of volunteer agricultural camps to be set up for 1954; and if he will give the areas of placing.

Sir T. Dugdale

Seventeen, of which four will be in Lincolnshire, three in Northumberland, two each in Oxford and Wiltshire and one each in the Isle of Ely, Rutland, Shropshire, Warwick, and the East and West Ridings of Yorkshire.

Mr. E. L. Mallalieu

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that his right hon. and learned Friends the Home Secretary and the Minister of Labour are at present sabotaging his efforts in these camps by preventing foreigners who want to work and live in them from going there, although farmers, at any rate in north Lincolnshire, badly need their help?

Sir T. Dugdale

I am satisfied that my right hon. and learned Friends have done nothing of the kind.

Major Legge-Bourke

Is the Minister aware of the great concern felt by growers on the Isle of Ely that the Minister, although allowing a voluntary holiday camp, is closing down other camps needed for labour in the fruit-picking season?

Sir T. Dugdale

I think that my hon. and gallant Friend is referring to a different kind of camp.We have that position very much in view, but the House must realise that these camps are extremely costly and the kind referred to in the Question are in areas where there is a definite demand.