HC Deb 27 June 1940 vol 362 cc620-1W
Mr. Marshall

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is now in a position to state that the moorlands and wastes of the country will be utilised for the rough grazing of hardy cattle and sheep?

Mr. Hudson

Specific inquiries have been made regarding the moorlands referred to in the Question put to me by the hon. Member on 11th April. These inquiries show that satisfactory arrangements had been made by the Derbyshire War Agricultural Executive Committee whereby all moorlands in that county should be effectively grazed with sheep this year. Officers of the committee will maintain observation during the summer to ensure that this is being done. There is no local demand for cattle grazing, and the local cattle are unsuited for this purpose. Part of one of the moors extending into Cheshire is held by the Manchester Corporation as a water gathering ground, and the pasturing of sheep is allowed. In the West Riding the question has been taken up locally but no report is yet available on the results achieved. Inquiries on the subject will, however, be pursued.