§ 82. Major W. MURRAYasked the Secretary for Scotland whether the proposals made by the Dumfriesshire War Committee for the establishment of a small holdings scheme in the neighbour hood of Lochmaben and Hightae have been approved, either in whole or in part, by the Scottish Board of Agriculture; and whether schemes for afforestation and the encouragement of rural industries will be combined with this small holdings scheme?
§ The SOLICITOR-GENERAL for SCOTLAND (Mr. Morison)The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. The Board have inquired into the proposal and arc still in correspondence with the committee. Apart, however, from other considerations, my hon. Friend is advised that the cost of terminating current leases would be prohibitive, and at present the circumstances are therefore unfavourable for the prosecution of the schemes referred to.
§ 83. Major MURRAYasked the Secretary for Scotland whether the land in the neighbourhood of Gretna factory upon which it has been proposed to establish small holdings has now been acquired by the Scottish Board of Agriculture; and whether it is intended to take- steps now for the settlement of small holders thereupon?
§ Mr. MORISONNegotiations are in progress between the Board and the War Department, but no definite arrangement has yet been concluded.