§ 2.35 p.m.
§ [The Question was as follows:
§ To ask Her Majesty's Government what progress is being made in the research upon farm buildings.]
§ THE LORD PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL (VISCOUNT HAILSHAM)My Lords, the Farm Buildings Research Committee set up a year ago to review and co-ordinate current research on farm buildings and to recommend new or additional research on the subject, is actively engaged on the first part of its task. A comprehensive examination of all the existing literature is being made and information collected on research in progress both in this country and abroad. A special unit has been established to carry out surveys designed to obtain detailed information about existing farm buildings, successful adaptations of old buildings and the most pressing immediate needs of the farmers.
§ LORD WISEMy Lords, I thank the noble Viscount for that reply. I am certain that when the Report is received it will be comprehensive and of help to the farming community.
§ VISCOUNT HAILSHAMI am obliged to the noble Lord.
§ LORD FORBESMy Lords, is the noble Viscount aware that the Farm Buildings Association have expressed grave concern that there is much inefficient construction and reconstruction of farm buildings going on; and since public funds are now available for this type of work, will he treat this matter as extremely urgent?
§ VISCOUNT HAILSHAMMy Lords, I have no doubt that my right honourable friend the Secretary of State for Scotland, in his capacity as agricultural Minister, will be delighted to provide advice as to present construction. However, the Question on the Order Paper relates to research, which is not in my hands, although I answer for it in Parliament.