Mr. De la Bére:

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether, in view of the many instances of failure to lift last season's potato crop, involving loss of many thousands of tons of potatoes, which was caused by shortage of labour on the farms throughout the country, he will make adequate provision for labour supply for this year's crop, in view of the growing importance of additional food production.

Publicity has already been given to the Government's intention to do everything possible to secure the necessary labour for harvesting the potato and other crops next autumn. I am sending to my hon. Friend a copy of the Press announcement in which this assurance was embodied.

Mr. De la Bére:

Is my right hon. Friend aware of the unprecedented lack of labour on the land, and that there are no seed potatoes in any place in Scotland or England available for farmers? Is he aware that something must be done for farmers?

Why not employ German prisoners?

Mr. De la Bére:

I beg to give notice that I will raise the matter at an early opportunity. It is really quite scandalous.