44. Colonel Sir J. HOPEasked the Minister of Labour what sum has been allocated to the Scottish Board of Agriculture for making training grants and granting agricultural scholarships to ex-soldiers; whether he is aware that the Board have been compelled to refuse grants and scholarships to desirable and qualified applicants on account of shortage of funds and have applied for an increased allocation; and whether it is intended to give this increased allocation?
§ Mr. MUNROI have been asked to reply to this question. The Treasury have now sanctioned an increase from 18 £6,000 to £24,000 in the allocation to the Board for the provision of Agricultural Scholarships to ex-soldiers. This provision will enable the Board to deal with any pending cases.
Sir J. HOPEMay I ask when that extra provision was made and when a decision as to the previously rejected candidates may be expected in order that they may know their fate quickly?
§ Mr. MUNROA decision has just been made, and the position as to rejected candidates will be immediately considered.