Sir GILBERT PARKERasked whether the Government gives a yearly Grant to the Agricultural Organisation Society; if so, what is the amount of that Grant; what are the terms on which it is given; has the Government representation on the board of the society; and, if so, who are the representatives?
§ Sir E. STRACHEYThe Board have agreed to make a grant of £1,200 per annum for a period of three years from 1st April, 1909, provided that the income of the society subscriptions and donations in each year is not less than £1,200. In the event of the income of the society exceeding that sum, the grant is increased by a corresponding amount to a maximum of £1,600. The actual amount granted for 1910–11 was £1,491 8s. 4d. The conditions are too detailed to give in reply to a question, but I shall be happy to send a copy to the hon. Member. The Board nominate six members of the Committee of Management, who are at present as follows:—
- Mr. T. Baines,
- Mr. E. J. Cheney,
- Small Holdings Commissioners.
- Mr. C. Roden Buxton,
- Mr. J. C. Gray,
- Central Small Holdings Society.
- Mrs. Roland Wilkins,
- Mr. D. McInnes,
- Co-operative Union, Limited.
Sir GILBERT PARKERMay I ask whether, with a view to further assistance, the Government will make representations to the Development Fund Commissioners urging a Grant-in-Aid of this society and its admirable national work?
§ Sir E. STRACHEYI must ask the hon. Gentleman to give me notice of that.