§ Mr. STANIERasked the President of the Board of Agriculture if he can give the names of the twelve selected institutions which will receive Grants for the investigation of local agricultural problems from the Development Commissioners?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANI am not sure whether the hon. Member refers to the provision to be made for research work or for the supply of technical advice to farmers. In regard to both matters negotiations are proceeding, and I am not yet in a position to state the result. I hope to do so at an early date.
§ Mr. C. BATHURSTasked whether any and, if any, what steps have been or are being taken by the Board, in conjunction with the Development Commissioners, to establish a State-controlled cattle-testing station, where British pedigree cattle prior to exportation may be subjected to reliable tests to ascertain their immunity from tuberculosis and other contagious diseases?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANThe Board are in communication with the Development Commission on this subject, and they are making inquiries as to the extent to which our export trade with the Colonies and foreign countries would be assisted by the establishment of a testing and quarantine station. No decision, however, has yet been arrived at.
§ Mr. C. BATHURSTIs it not a fact that the desirability of this station has already been established by the Report of the Departmental Commission presided over by Lord Strachey?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANNo, I do not think it has been fully established, but we are going into the matter. It is not being lost sight of.