HC Deb 06 December 1956 vol 561 c1431
21. Mr. Kimball

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if, in assessing the 33⅓ per cent. grant for permanent fixed equipment on farms and the making of long-term improvements, he will allow the farmers' own labour to count in the total cost.

Mr. Amory

I regret that this would not be practicable, even if it were acceptable in principle.

Mr. Kimball

Is my right hon. Friend aware that many of these improvements, especially on small farms, will be done with the excellent prefabricated buildings now on sale, in the putting up of which the farmer's own labour can play a large part?

Mr. Amory

I agree with my hon. Friend. I have looked at this problem twice, very sympathetically, hoping to be able to find the kind of solution which I know he would welcome. But I have to admit that I have been unsuccesful. The difficulties in adopting the kind of solution which he would like are, unfortunately, not confined to agriculture.