HC Deb 30 January 1947 vol 432 c261W
Sir W. Smithers

asked the President of the Board of Trade if His Majesty's Government will cease exporting tractors and adopt a policy of securing the maximum quantity of feeding-stuffs and tractors for British farmers to increase home-grown food.

Sir S. Cripps

It is the Government's policy to produce the maximum quantity of home-grown food and feeding-stuffs consistent with practical considerations, and also to obtain all the supplies we can from overseas. Tractors are consequently needed at home and abroad to aid the production of food and feeding-stuffs for our use. I cannot, therefore, agree to the cessation of tractor exports, and production must continue to be divided between home and overseas demands in proportions agreed in consultation with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries.

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