HC Deb 14 October 1946 vol 427 cc112-3W
74. Mr. Gooch

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he is aware that Norfolk farmers are handicapped by the shortage of machinery and spare parts; and what steps are being taken to enable farmers to play a full part in the food production campaign.

Mr. T. Williams

I am aware that certain classes of agricultural machinery are still in short supply. Manufacturers are developing arrangements for considerably increased production and every possible assistance is being given to help them to achieve their programmes. I am not aware of any general shortage of spare parts for home-produced machines, though spares for some imported machinery are still short.

83. Mr. J. Morrison

asked the Minister of Agriculture what complaints have been received from farmers that it is impossible for them to get agricultural machinery because of the amount being exported.

Mr. T. Williams

Occasional complaints have been received about difficulty and delay in obtaining machinery of different kinds owing to exports, but in general the supplies of agricultural machinery that are going to the homo market are increasing.

87. Mr. J. Morrison

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he is aware of the shortage of 22 mm. plugs for Fordson agricultural tractors; and what steps he is taking to rectify the matter.

Mr. T. Williams

I am not aware of any shortage of sparking plugs for Ford-son agricultural tractors.