HC Deb 02 July 1925 vol 185 c2784
70. Mr. FENBY

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether the Government has decided to continue the winter land drainage schemes for the alleviation of unemployment which have been in existence for the last two years; and, if not, whether he can suggest any alternative scheme for the benefit of those for whom land drainage would have provided work?

Mr. WOOD

The question referred to by the hon. Member is still under consideration. I hope to be able to make an anouncement at a very early date.

Mr. PALING

Are the local authorities sending in schemes as much as in the last two years, or is there any lack of schemes?

Mr. WOOD

I cannot answer that without notice.

Major the Marquess of TITCHFIELD

Can my right hon. Friend see his way to get the Department to pay more than 75 per cent. of the total charge, which falls heavily on individual farmers in some parts of the country?

Mr. WOOD

I cannot give my Noble Friend an undertaking of that kind.