§ 30. Major RUGGLES-BRISEasked the Minister of Agriculture what have been the annual profits, if any, and losses on the various farm settlements held under the Small Holdings Colonies Acts, 1916–18; and what annual amount respectively of these profits and losses is in respect of estate account and farming account respectively?
Mr. GUINNESSFull particulars of the annual profits and losses (farm and estate) of each of the Ministry's farm settlements during the past three years are contained in the trading accounts which are printed as an appendix in the Report of the Ministry's Proceedings under the Small Holding (Colonies) Acts, 1916–18, which was published 10 days ago. During the past three years the average annual loss for all the settlements com- 810 bined has been £11,265 on the farm accounts and £41,976 on the estate account, making an average annual loss on both accounts of £53,241. These losses are arrived at after taking into account hypothetical interest charges on Exchequer advances, headquarter administrative expenses, and provision for depreciation of buildings and farm implements. A large part of the loss mentioned is due to the interest charges.
§ Sir HENRY CAUTLEYDoes that take into account any appreciation of the value of the estates?
Mr. GUINNESSThese figures refer to annual trading losses as a result of the Ministry's proceedings under the Small Holdings (Colonies) Acts.
§ Sir H. CAUTLEYThey have nothing to do with the capital account?