§ 74. Mr. MILLSasked the Minister of Agriculture what progress has been made with the afforestation programme; how many trees cut for war purposes have been replaced by seedlings; and how-many of the areas suitable for planting have been utilised, particularly in the area of Kent?
§ Mr. FORESTIER-WALKER (for the Forestry Commission)I have been asked to take over this question. Since the Forestry Commissioners were appointed on 29th November, 1919, 9,801 acres have been planted by them in England and Wales, 6,580 acres in Scotland and to 31st March last, when the Commissioners discontinued forestry operations in Ireland, 1,472 acres had been planted in that country. Approximately 3,300 acres have also been replanted in the Crown woods. The Commissioners have no information as to the number of trees cut for war purposes in privately-owned woods, but their general information is to the effect that replanting is proceeding very slowly. Applications for planting grants under the Forestry Act, 1921, to private individuals and corporate bodies in respect of 12,312 acres have been approved by the Commissioners, but until inspections are completed, it is not possible to say what proportion of that area has actually been planted. Of this area 10 acres are situated in Kent, but the Commissioners are unable to give exact information as to the general progress of re-afforestation in that county.
§ Lieut.-Colonel ASHLEYCould the hon. Gentleman state whether the subsidy which has been paid, or which is owing, to private owners for replanting this last winter, will be available for private owners to replant during the coming winter? I want to know, so that they can make their plans.
§ Mr. SPEAKERI think the hon. and gallant Member had better put down a question.