HC Deb 25 April 1955 vol 540 cc595-6
12. Mr. Hurd

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the estimated investment in new farm machinery equipment and buildings in each of the past three years.

Mr. Amory

The estimated totals of agricultural investment in Great Britain in 1952, 1953 and 1954 are, for machinery and equipment, £54 million, £53 million and £55 million, for vehicles £6 million, £7 million and £6 million, and for buildings and construction, £18 million, £21 million and £23 million. These figures are for private investment and include purchases for replacement.

Mr. Hurd

Is this satisfactory rate of investment towards mechanisation and improvement of efficiency in agriculture continuing during the present year as far as my right hon. Friend can judge?

Mr. Amory

As far as I can judge, yes, and I very much hope it is continuing.

Mr. Swingler

Does the Minister regard this amount as an adequate rate of investment in view of the need for food and agricultural production?

Mr. Amory

I should like to see it still higher.