§ 70. Mr. GROVESasked the Minister of Agriculture the total number of ex-service men and others who have been settled on small holdings under the land settlement scheme and the cost of such settlement; and whether his Department has any information to lead to a conclusion that the men who have so settled will succeed in making a satisfactory livelihood?
§ The MINISTER of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Edward Wood)The total number of men who have been provided with small holdings since the Armistice by county councils, councils of county boroughs, and by the Ministry direct is 23,124, of whom 20,502 are ex-service men. The capital expenditure in respect of the purchase and equipment of land for this purpose amounts to approximately 15 million pounds. In reply to the last part of the hon. Member's question, it is estimated that, with the exception of about 10 per cent., the men settled are likely to succeed in their enterprise.
§ Mr. PERCY HARRISDoes not the right hon. Gentleman think this number is very small, considering the enormous number of men who fought for their country, many of whom desire land and have not been able to obtain it?
§ Mr. WOODI do not think I can express an opinion in the form of a short answer. Obviously there are a great many factors involved.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODHow much of the £ 15,000,000 is for the purchase of land and how much for equipment?
§ Mr. WOODI could not say without notice, but if my right hon. and gallant Friend will put a question down, I shall be glad to answer it.