HC Deb 04 August 1870 vol 203 c1526
MR. COWPER-TEMPLE

said, he wished to ask the Secretary to the Treasury, Whether pending the decision of the Government on the application of the rights of the Crown in the New Forest, it is not expedient to authorize the Commissioners of Woods and Forests to abstain from destroying ancient picturesque woods for the purpose of replanting them with saplings; and if this is not a sacrifice of present value for a doubtful prospect of future returns?

MR. STANSFELD

said, in reply, that there was no intention on the part of the Commissioners of Woods and Forests, or of the Treasury, to destroy the ancient and picturesque woods of the New Forest. Such a proceeding, in their opinion, would be both barbarous and unprofitable.