§ 74. Mr. HINDSasked the Minister of Agriculture what is the total sum expended at Pembrey Farm, up to the 31st March last, in respect of land, buildings, improvements, stock, implements, labour, and all other outgoings; what are the total receipts for the same period; how many ex-soldiers have been accommodated on the farms; what portion of the land is still farmed by the Ministry; and whether any change of policy is contemplated?
§ Major BARNSTONIn reply to the first two parts of mw hon. Friend's question, the accounts of the Pembrey Farm Settlement up to 31st March last are now in course of preparation, and will be published as soon as they are completed. The latest information available in a complete form is contained in Command Paper 1184. In reply to the third part of the question, four ex-service men have been provided with holdings, while 17 additional ex-service men are working on the Settlement. Of the latter, 14 are profit sharers and one is on probation. 1,300 acres are still being farmed by the Ministry, of which 572 acres are to be offered for sale by auction in July, with possession at Michaelmas. The Ministry proposes to await the result of the sale before arriving at a decision as to the future policy with regard to the rest of the Settlement.