§ 35. Mr. Hurdasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if, in view of the short notice given of his decision to close the Government grain silos next month, he will allow their use for the 1956 harvest, maintaining the drying and storage facilities until 30th October next, by which time farmers' co-operative societies and other groups should be able to decide whether to lease them.
Mr. AmoryAt a time when economy in public expenditure is a paramount consideration, the Government would not be justified in continuing this service in view of the further substantial loss that would be incurred in the interests of relatively few producers.
§ Mr. HurdWhile fully accepting what my right hon. Friend has said, would it not be common sense to keep these grain silos and grain-drying facilities available for use in the 1956 harvest in case we get a return of the abominable weather of two years ago, when we shall be very sorry that grain is rotting because we have no way of getting it dried? Should it not be done in time for this harvest?
Mr. AmoryI agree that that is an important point. If there should be a very wet season and the risk of crops 2200 generally being spoiled, I would consider what I could do in an emergency of that kind.
§ Mr. ChampionAre these silos kept on a care and maintenance basis so that they can be used in that way?
Mr. AmoryThey can be used at comparatively short notice. They will be either on a care and maintenance basis or used for storing the national food stockpile.