HC Deb 24 February 1903 vol 118 cc677-8
MR. MACVEAGH

I beg to ask the President of the Board of Agriculture whether it is intended to give effect to the recent recommendation of the Departmental Committee on British Forestry with reference to the acquirement by the State of areas for practical demonstration; and, if so, whether he will consult with the President of the Department of Agriculture in Ireland as to the advisability of securing in Ireland a similar area.

MR. HANBURY

The evidence taken by the Forestry Committee has not yet been published, and I am therefore not at present in a position to come to any decision with regard to the proposed provision of demonstration areas. It is clear, however, that the recommendations of the Committee involve important financial considerations, which will require careful examination both at the Treasury and by the Commissioners of Woods and Forests, as well as by myself. We shall certainly consult the Irish Department of Agriculture on the subject before any action is taken.

MR. BOLAND (Kerry, S.)

I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland whether it is the intention of the Government to appoint a Commission to inquire into the promotion and extension of afforestation in Ireland, in view of the fact that the Commission appointed for a similar object as regards England and Wales has recently issued its Report.

MR. WYNDHAM

Some of the recommendations in the Report of the Committee on British Forestry are applicable, in principle, to Ireland. The Irish Department is at present conducting a special survey of existing woodlands, and lands suitable for forestry operations. Such a survey is necessary to enable the Department to consider the measures to be adopted to give effect to the recommendations of the Report in question.

CAPTAIN DONELAN

Is it proposed to make any provision for the preservation of existing plantations in Ireland?

MR. WYNDHAM

I can make no announcement on the subject.