HC Deb 27 November 1951 vol 494 cc136-7W
114. Mr. M. MacPherson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he proposes in order to increase the tillage area.

Mr. J. Stuart

I hope for some extension of the 1952 tillage area in Scotland as part of the expansion programme, under which farmers are being asked to maintain at least the present acreage of potatoes and sugar beet, to increase the acreage under wheat, and to secure the greatest possible production of oats and barley for the maintenance of our increasing livestock population. These objectives have already been discussed with the chairmen of agricultural executive committees. The Government have under urgent consideration the whole question of food production, including the optimum balance to be aimed at between crops and livestock production.