§ Sir C. Edwardsasked the Minister of Agriculture what subsidy was paid to potato growers; whether it was paid on the acreage planted or on the amount of potatoes delivered; how many acres were not lifted because the growers would not pay the agricultural wage and could not get cheap prisoner-of-war labour; and whether he can promise any relief in the potato position.
§ Mr. T. WilliamsAn acreage payment at the rate of £10 per acre is paid to potato growers in respect of the acreage planted to this crop. I am not aware that any potatoes were not lifted this season for the reason suggested in the second part of the Question. As regards the last part of the Question, the recent improvement in the weather has enabled growers in most districts to begin loading again, and my right hon. and gallant Friend the Minister of Food is doing everything possible to ensure that supplies are evenly distributed.