§ Mr. WILLIAM REDMONDasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in view of the success attending tobacco-growing in Ireland and the employment the extension of the industry was likely to 440 give, he would favourably consider whether further financial encouragement might be given to the tobacco growers in the future, so that the area under crop might be so increased as to allow small holders to take up tobacco cultivation?
§ Mr. LLOYD-GEORGEI think that in view of the passage of the Development Act of last Session, this is a matter which should in the first instance be brought before the Development Commission, which I hope will shortly be constituted.
§ Mr. WILLIAM REDMONDAre we to understand that the Commissioners will have full power?
§ Mr. LLOYD-GEORGEUndoubtedly.
§ Mr. JAMES HOPEWould not a better way of assisting the industry be to abolish or reduce the excise?
§ Mr. LLOYD-GEORGEThat would be the very worst way.
§ Mr. JAMES HOPEWhy?
§ Sir JOHN JARDINEWill any benefits conceded to Ireland be granted also to tobacco growers in Roxburgh and other parts of Scotland?
§ Mr. LLOYD-GEORGEI have already given a reply to that question to representatives of Scotland. If she puts herself in a position to comply, Scotland will undoubtedly receive exactly the same treatment as Ireland.
An HON. MEMBERWill the same consideration be extended to those who are anxious to cultivate the beet-growing industry?
§ Mr. LLOYD-GEORGEI have already answered that question.