§ MR. JAMES HOWARDasked the First Lord of the Treasury, Whether the Department for Agriculture about to be created will comprise branches for dealing with the questions of cattle disease, agricultural education, agricultural statistics, and the investigation of special subjects which may arise; and, whether, in order to insure the efficiency of the Department, the permanent officials, or any of them, will be chosen for their special knowledge of agricultural and rural affairs?
MR. GLADSTONESir, this Question does not admit of a specific answer in detail, because we have to feel our way as to particulars, and especially in regard to the particular qualifications which may be required for any persons who are to discharge the business under the direction of my right hon. Friend; but, speaking generally, I should say that undoubtedly he, in his Office, will take over from the Privy Council, as now constituted, questions of cattle disease, questions of agricultural statistics, and likewise the investigation of special subjects which may arise. With regard to agricultural education, that is a matter of consideration, on which I can give no positive answer at present.
§ MR. JAMES HOWARDCan the right hon. Gentleman say when the arrangements now in contemplation are expected to be completed?
MR. GLADSTONEWhat I hope is that my hon. Friend will derive adequate information respecting the proposed arrangements upon the Vote which it will be our duty to submit, and he will then be in a position to give full consideration to the matter.