§ 76. Mr. WIGNALLasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture whether he is aware that the reluctance of the Crown authorities to carry out the works needed in the Forest of Dean, i.e., the improving of surface drainage and the making of new roads, is viewed with anxiety not only by the many ex-soldiers who have recently been discharged by His Majesty's Office of Woods representative to allow of pupils or students being trained in forestry, but by the residents generally; whether he is aware that the improving of surface drainage and the starting of making new roads are an urgent necessity; is he aware that the number of men who were employed in pre-War time are not now so employed; and whether he will take such steps as are required to put these works in hand?
Sir A. BOSCAWENIt is necessary to communicate with the Deputy Surveyor in charge of the Forest of Dean in order to obtain information in regard to some of the points raised, and I regret that it is consequently impossible to answer the question fully to-day, but if the hon. Member will repeat the question in a few days' time I shall be pleased to give a further reply.