§ 28. Mr. F. Noel-Bakerasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, as representing the Minister for Science, what steps he will take to promote the improvement of the design of farm buildings; and what co-operation there has been between his Department and the Council of Industrial Design.
§ Mr. SoamesThe Agricultural Research Council set up the Farm Buildings Unit to assist architects and others in designing farm buildings so that they are best fitted for their purpose. There is close co-operation between the unit 587 and the Council of Industrial Design and the unit is, I know, well aware of the views which have been expressed on behalf of the Council of Industrial Design.
§ Mr. Noel-BakerI thank the Minister for that reply, but does not he agree that many farm buildings are both less efficient and less well sited than they would be if proper advantage were taken of farm design techniques? Will he do all he can to ensure that we have the highest standards in future?
§ Mr. SoamesI am all for having the highest possible standards. My officers have instructions to do all they can, in their advisory work, to encourage better siting and design. It is very much a matter of educating opinion, and in this respect we work closely both with the Ministry of Housing and Local Government and the Council of Industrial Design.