HC Deb 13 March 1919 vol 113 cc1463-4
63. Major E. WOOD

asked the Lord Privy Seal when it is hoped to introduce the Bill dealing with land settlement?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I hope that it will be possible to introduce this Bill early next week.

98. Sir SAMUEL SCOTT

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture what amount of land has been taken over by the Government and local authorities for the purpose of land settlement of soldiers and sailors?

Sir A. BOSCAWEN

Approximately 16,400 acres have already been acquired for the settlement of ex-Service men, and additional land is being acquired for the purpose each week.

Mr. RAFFAN

How many men have been actually settled on the land?

Sir A. BOSCAWEN

I must ask for notice of that question.

99. Sir S. SCOTT

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture whether the Government has considered the possibility of forming county land settlement colonies for officers or men who have served in the regiments belonging to the county?

Sir A. BOSCAWEN

The Board have urged county councils to establish land settlement colonies for the ex-Service men for whom they are responsible, and the Board have reason to believe that in the selection of tenants for any colonies that are established preference will be given to men who have served in the County Regiment.

Sir S. SCOTT

How many colonies have been established?

Sir A. BOSCAWEN

Four have been already established by the Board.

Major E. WOOD

Can the hon. Gentleman give the House any estimate how many men require land?

Sir A. BOSCAWEN

I cannot give any actual estimate. We are obtaining figures at the present moment.

103. Mr. HINDS

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture what progress has been made with the development and organisation of the Crown colony at Towyn and Penybedd, in the county of Carmarthen; whether a director has been appointed; and whether the said director will be required to submit his proposals for approval by the Advisory Committee?

Sir A. BOSCAWEN

Adverse weather conditions have seriously handicapped the work on this settlement. Before any beginning can be made in the settlement the land must be drained and thoroughly cleaned; this work is in progress. No director has yet been appointed. When appointed he will be required to submit his proposals as to policy to the Board, who will consult the Advisory Committee as occasion arises.

Mr. RAFFAN

Is this one of the four colonies which are stated to be in good working order?

Sir A. BOSCAWEN

Yes, it is one of the four colonies.