8. Colonel THORNEasked the Prime Minister whether the Government have any intention of promoting a scheme for State tree-planting as proposed by the Afforestation Royal Commission some years back; and if he intends taking any action in the matter?
§ The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER (Mr. Bonar Law)The Government have given general approval to the Report of the Reconstruction Committee on Afforestation, which is later in date than the Report of the Royal Commission to which the hon. Member refers, and have set up an interim authority for the purpose of initiating schemes of afforestation.
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI do not think my hon. Friend need ask that question, as I heard him discussing it at some length the other night.
Mr. PRICEIn view of the high price of timber, which is being bought at an increase of 300 per cent., is it proposed to impose any obligation on the proprietors to plant trees?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI am sure the hon. Gentleman will understand that I cannot answer that without notice and an examination of the question.
Mr. T. WILSONAs I understand the Government is going to adopt the recommendation of the Reconstruction Subcommittee as to afforestation, and as many questions affecting the welfare and interests of working men are concerned, will there be any labour representation on the Committee?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI do not remember the constitution of the Committee, and I cannot say offhand.
§ Mr. BONAR LAWYes.
§ Sir J. BOYTONWill the right hon. Gentleman impose any obligations on German supplies of timber, of which they must have a large quantity?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWSubjects which are matters for the Peace Conference cannot be answered now, and I am afraid I must give the same answer to this question.