Sir GILBERT PARKERasked the Prime Minister whether he will appoint a Select Committee to inquire into the working of land banks, credit societies, and agricultural co-operative associations, and their relation to the development of small ownership, in foreign countries and in our Colonies?
§ The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Asquith)I am disposed to think that this is a subject which has passed beyond the stage of inquiry, as the advantages of the institutions in question are generally understood and appreciated. My Noble Friend, the President of the Board of Agriculture, and his Department, is taking active steps in concert with certain voluntary organisations for the encouragement of co-operative associations.