§ Mr. CULLINANasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether he is aware of the fact that very many landholders in Ireland experience difficulty in tilling their lands owing to the want of suitable machinery; whether he is aware that the Munitions Department has prevented Irish agents from securing such machinery for large numbers who are willing to help in increasing the production of food; and whether some practical and definite steps will be taken by the Irish Government to secure the agricultural machinery so urgently needed to meet the requirements of the situation.
§ Mr. DUKEI am informed by the Ministry of Munitions that the statements in the question are contrary to fact; that Ireland has been given preference both in regard to tractors and material; and that the difficulty of obtaining supplies is due to causes which affect the United Kingdom generally. Any individual case of delay which may be reported to the Ministry of Munitions will, I am assured, be dealt with as quickly as possible.