§ 12. Mr. Gallacherasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that smallholders around Perth are having to pay approximately £6, per acre for second-grade land whilst farming land is obtainable for from 15s. to 30s. a year for good farming land, and that, as a consequence, many smallholders engaged in the poultry industry are finding it impossible to carry on; and whether consideration has been given to the necessity of granting some form of Government assistance to persons engaged in this very important branch of food raising?
§ Mr. ColvilleI am aware that there are smallholdings in the neighbourhood of Perth with rentals varying from £24 to £34 for five to six acres of land equipped with dwelling house and other buildings. Prior to subdivision the land was let at approximately £2 6s. per acre unequipped with buildings. The difficulties with which the poultry industry have been faced in recent years are not, I think, due to high rentals. As the hon. Member is aware, the Government have announced their intention to introduce legislation in the interests of the industry.
§ Mr. GallacherWill the legislation which is to be introduced in connection with poultry farms deal also with smallholders?
§ Mr. ColvilleI could not forecast the nature of the legislation.
§ Mr. GallacherWill the Minister see that smallholders get some consideration in any legislation which is introduced?
§ Mr. ColvilleSo far as it relates to the poultry industry, that will be borne in mind.
§ Mr. MathersWhen are we to have this legislation?