§ 38. General CROFTasked the Minister of Munitions whether his attention has been called to the fact that large quantities of horse-chestnuts were collected in various parts of the country at the request of the Ministry of Munitions last year, and that, in spite of repeated applications to the Ministry for instructions as to their disposal, these chestnuts were allowed to rot; and whether the Ministry will prepare a definite scheme of organisation in this connection now, so that the same waste may not occur during the current year?
§ Mr. KELLAWAYThe quantity of horse-chestnuts which, on account of various unavoidable difficulties, it was found impossible to remove, and which, consequently, rotted, was very small and probably did not exceed l⅛ per cent. of the total quantity collected. In the event of horse-chestnuts being required for munitions purposes this year, it is hoped, thanks to the experience gained in the course of last year's collection, to avoid even this small percentage of loss.
§ General CROFTHas the hon. Gentleman's attention been called to the fact that again and again applications were made to the Ministry in regard to this, and they received no answer? I myself had two official letters, but I could get no answer on the subject.
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe hon. Member is now making a statement.