HC Deb 12 October 1943 vol 392 c731W
Mr. Erskine-Hill

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he is satisfied that the sugar-beet crop is being successfully gathered in; and how far any appeal for labour assistance has been made to the War Office and Minister of Labour?

Mr. T. Williams

Sugar-beet lifting has only recently begun and normally continues until the latter part of December, but my right hon. Friend is satisfied with the progress so far made. As regards labour, my right hon. Friend has arranged for the transfer of additional Italian prisoners to the sugar-beet areas; and he is in close touch with the Ministry of Labour and with the Services who are giving a great deal of help in those districts where they can.