Mr. Astorasked the Minister of Agriculture what steps are being taken to interest British engineering firms in the post-war manufacture of agricultural machinery of the types now obtained from abroad.
Mr. HudsonA number of British firms have already shown an interest in the manufacture of agricultural machinery and implements of types that are now imported, and in discussion with my Department they have been given every possible assistance. In addition, the Agricultural Machinery Development Board have recently made recommendations on the development and specification of implements required in British agriculture, including types now imported, and these recommendations have been communicated to the Joint Standing Committee of the Agricultural Engineering Industry.