§ 42. Mr. WHYTEasked the right hon. Gentleman, as representing the Scottish Board of Agriculture, whether any steps have recently been taken to establish or develop the system of co-operation in the agricultural commerce of Scotland; whether anything has been done to place cheap and easy credit within reach of the whole farming and crofting community; and, if not, whether he proposes to follow the example of the English Board in this matter?
Mr. McKINNON WOODThe Board cordially support the efforts of the Scottish Agricultural Organisation Society to promote the formation and organisation of co-operative agricultural societies, and have been making inquiries as to the best means of bringing credit within the reach of small holders, but, as negotiations are still proceeding, I am not in a position to make any more definite statement. The position in Scotland is a little different from what it is in England.
§ Mr. BARNESWill this be done direct through the agency of the State, without the aid of private banks?