§ MR. R. H. PAGETasked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, If he will be good enough to state the ar- 1695 rangements which have been made, or are proposed to be made, with regard to the numbers, emoluments, and duties of the Staff of the "Committee of Council for the consideration of all matters relating to Agriculture," over which he presides; and, if he will inform the House in which of the public offices information is now to be sought on statistical, veterinary, or other matters connected with agriculture?
§ MR. DODSONAs soon as the Order in Council had been passed, appointing the Committee on Agriculture—which was not until the end of April—we communicated with the Departments which have hitherto been charged with the preparation of the Agricultural Statistics, with a view of ascertaining the probable requirements of the Office and the work which will devolve upon it. Arrangements are under consideration; and as soon as it is ascertained what the full extent of the duties are, we shall be in a position to say what additions will be made to the Staff. Till then I cannot mention the number or the duties or the emoluments. When these are settled an Estimate will be submitted. Meanwhile, any application for information on such matters as those mentioned should be made to the Agricultural Committee of the Privy Council. I will only add, in explanation, that the Lord President of the Council is ex officio President of the Committee, and I preside in his absence.
§ MR. R. H. PAGETWill the right hon. Gentleman state how soon he will be able to lay on the Table Estimates for the Services?
§ MR. DODSONI am unable to state at present when an Estimate will be presented. There will be no unnecessary loss of time; but the transfer of so complicated a matter as the Agricultural Statistics to a new Department involves a great deal of care and consideration.