§ 4. Mr. C. BATHURSTasked the President of the Board of Agriculture what proportion of the cost of erection and equipment and of maintenance, respectively, of a fruit institute, whether established in the south-eastern counties or in the counties of Hereford, Gloucester, and Worcester, it is proposed to provide out of Development Fund Grants and what proportion will have to be raised locally?
§ The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Runciman)The answer to this question must depend upon the definition of the term "fruit institute." If the nature of the work contemplated is such that it could be brought within the scope of the regulations for Farm Institutes, a Grant of 75 per cent. could be made towards the approved capital expenditure, and a Grant varying between 50 per cent. and 75 per cent., according to the circumstances could be made towards the annual cost of maintenance. If, on the other hand, the hon. Gentleman has in view an institute for research, many important considerations are involved, and I could not commit myself to a definite answer without having a concrete proposal before me. The fruit industry is of great and growing importance, and any proposals which may be submitted to the Board will receive sympathetic consideration.
§ Mr. C. BATHURSTIs not the expression "fruit institute" one which has already an official meaning in the right hon. Gentleman's Department?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANIt has not an official meaning as yet within the Regulations sanctioned by the Development Commissioners and the Treasury.