§ 40. Lord APSLEY (for Colonel PERKINS)asked the hon. Member for Monmouth, as representing the Forestry Commissioners, how many woodmen and assistant keepers, respectively, were employed in the New Forest on 25th March, 1920, and 25th March, 1927?
§ Sir LEOLIN FORESTIER-WALKER (Forestry Commissioner)On 25th March, 1920, 12 woodmen and nine assistant keepers were employed in the New Forest; on 25th March, 1927, the numbers were 11 and 10, respectively.
§ Lord APSLEYMay I ask whether these operations in the New Forest are carried out with a view to improving the amenities of the forest or as a commercial proposition?
§ Sir L. FORESTIER-WALKERThat matter will be in the hands of a committee which I think the House understands is to be set up shortly, and it has not really been decided what shall be done.
§ Mr. HARRISAre we to understand that the amenities are being considered, and not merely the commercial aspect?
§ Sir L. FORESTIER-WALKERThe hon. Member must not understand anything at the moment until a decision has been arrived at.
§ Mr. R. MORRISONDoes that mean that 10 woodmen are employed now, and no one seems to know what they are employed for or what they are doing?
§ Sir L. FORESTIER-WALKERThey are looking after the woods.