§ 54. Mr. J. HARRISasked the Minister of Agriculture if he will state how many men it is proposed to employ in the reclamation of a portion of the Wash; and how many of these will be drawn from the ranks of the unemployed?
§ The MINISTER of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Buxton)It is anticipated that not less than 200 men will be required. They will be entirely drawn from the ranks of the unemployed with the exception of certain skilled men.
§ Mr. HARRISCan the right hon. Gentleman say how many of the unemployed he anticipates being able to use on this work?
§ Mr. BUXTONThis work will be completed in the course of two years. Until it is further advanced it is impossible to say how many will be employed.
§ Major HORE-BELISHADoes the right hon. Gentleman admit that the unemployed proposals of the Government are a wash-out?
§ Sir K. WOODWhen will these men begin work?
§ Mr. BUXTONThe surveyors are proceeding as quickly as possible, and are not waiting until the autumn to begin.
§ Sir K. WOODWill it be months, weeks or years?
§ Captain EDENCan the right hon. Gentleman say what is the estimated expenditure upon this scheme?
§ Mr. BUXTONAbout £32,000.
§ Viscount CURZONIs this to be the main plank of the Government's platform in the forthcoming Election?
§ Major WHELERWhat will be the rates of pay for these men? Will they be the agricultural rates of the locality, or what?
§ Mr. BUXTONIt is not yet decided