§ 29. Sir W. Smithersasked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in view of the fact that four divisions of the National Coal Board made losses on their agricultural estates in 1953, he will take steps to have the farms concerned taken over by his Department.
§ Sir T. DugdaleNo, Sir.
§ Sir W. SmithersIf the Minister puts farmers under supervision and dispossesses them, why does he not adopt the same procedure with Government Departments? Had he not much better hand these estates over to experienced farmers who know their job?
§ Sir T. DugdaleThe Coal Board is an independent statutory body. My sole concern as Minister responsible for the administration of the Agriculture Act in England and Wales is to see that the Coal Board, like any other owner or farmer, complies with the rules of good estate management and good husbandry.
§ Mr. RobensHas the right hon. Gentleman found it necessary to complain at any time about the husbandry on N.C.B. farms?
§ Sir T. DugdaleNot as far as I am aware.