§ LORD BALCARRES (Lancashire, Chorley)I beg to ask the Secretary for Scotland if he will state how much money has been spent during the present year upon afforestation at Inverliever; what staff is at present engaged there; what Department controls their work; and what is the total estimated outlay during 1908–1909.
§ MR. HOBHOUSEI understand that no money has been spent up to date on afforestation, as operations have not been commenced. A forester has been appointed and is resident on the estate. The necessary arrangements are now being made for housing a staff of some eight men so as to begin planting operations next autumn. The Commissioners of Woods, advised by their Chief Consulting Forest Officer, control the work. It is impossible at present to forecast the total outlay during 1908–1909, but it is hoped to plant up about 100 acres.
§ LORD BALCARRESWhat experience has the Woods and Forests Department of afforestation on the sea-board line of Scotland, where there is a rainfall of seventy inches.?
§ MR. HOBHOUSEI suppose as much experience as any other public department.
§ LORD BALCARRESHas the Scottish Office no control over this afforestation in Scotland?
§ MR. HOBHOUSEI speak with but a limited knowledge of the Woods and Forests Department. It is only indirectly under the Treasury. But they own this land, and they have very large experience of planting in England and some in Wales, where the rainfall is quite as heavy as in Scotland.
§ MAJOR ANSTRUTHER-GRAYAnd are only nine men to be employed?
§ MR. HOBHOUSEAt present.