asked the Minister of Agriculture what is his long-term policy for the small mixed farms of the family type which cannot afford all the necessary machinery for fully mechanised farming; and if he will give an assurance that this type of farm will not be allowed to disappear through lack of official encouragement.

Small family farms of all types fully share in the benefits of the Government's Agricultural Policy founded on the Agriculture Act, 1947. A large proportion are primarily concerned with livestock production, a large expansion of which is a major factor in the Government's long-term programme, and the scope for mechanisation is necessarily limited. My right hon. Friend is fully alive to the great contribution to food supplies which such farmers can make and are making.