HC Deb 05 July 1926 vol 197 c1614
57. Mr. BUXTON

asked the hon. Member for Monmouth, as representing the Forestry Commissioners, if he will state the total area which has been afforested by the Forestry Commission, and the present number of men employed by the Commission in the care of plantations and nurseries?

Sir FORESTIER-WALKER (for The Forestry Commissioners)

The total area which has been planted in Great Britain by the Forestry Commission is 71,051 acres. The number of foresters, foremen, gangers and forest and nursery workers according to the latest returns- as on 1st June last was 2,546. The number of workers varies considerably, declining during each summer and increasing during the planting season.

Mr. BUXTON

Is the Commission arranging for a progressive extension of planting in the future?

Sir L. FORESTIER-WALKER

Yes, Sir, this last season we have planted some 18,400 acres, and next season, commencing November, it will be something like 24,000 acres.