§ 6. Mr. HINDSasked the President of the Board of Agriculture if he contemplated linking up Glamorganshire and Monmouthshire with Bristol University for technical instruction in agriculture; and if he is aware of the objections expressed by agricultural and educational societies in Wales against such a proposal?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANThe Board have asked the University of Bristol if they would be prepared to investigate questions sent to them by agricultural instructors or farmers in a group of counties including Glamorganshire and Monmouthshire, and to advise in cases where useful advice could be offered. The university have agreed to place the services of certain members of their scientific staff at the disposal of agriculturists for these purposes. I propose to hold a conference of representatives from the counties concerned on 25th July. The Glamorganshire Education Authority have, however, informed me that they do not wish to be associated with the scheme, and I have 13 expressed the hope that I may be able to confer with them at a later date, when I meet the representatives of other Welsh counties. I have received no protest from Monmouthshire, and I understand that representatives of the county intend to be present at the conference on 25th July. I am anxious to act, as far as possible, in harmony with the local authorities.
§ Lord NINIAN CRICHTON-STUARTWill the right hon. Gentleman use his influence to create an area for a centre in South Wales?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANI cannot say anything further on this question until I have had an opportunity of conferring with the authorities.