HC Deb 05 March 1912 vol 35 cc193-4
Mr. MORTON

asked the President of the Board of Agriculture whether he can state what means, if any, are being taken to promote the cultivation and cure of tobacco in England and Scotland?

The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Runciman)

I understand that the Development Commissioners have set on foot inquiries to enable them to judge to what extent it is desirable that Grants should be made out of the Development Fund for the promotion of experiments in tobacco cultivation, and in the meantime the Treasury have sanctioned the Grant of an allowance equal to one-third of the duty paid on the actual weight of tobacco brought to charge during a period of three years in cases in which authority has been given for the institution of such experiments by private individuals in England and Scotland under Section 83 (4) of the Finance (1909–10) Act, 1910.

Mr. MORTON

Will the right hon. Gentleman use his influence to press on the consideration of this matter?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

Yes; I believe the Development Commissioners are making inquiries now.

Mr. STANIER

Is the Board of Agriculture recommending the Development Commissioners to do so?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

It has not arisen in that form. The Commissioners are making inquiries now, and when they have completed their inquiries the Board of Agriculture will take the matter up.