§ 19. Colonel DAY (for Mr. N. MACLEAN)asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what demand for small holdings still remains unsatisfied in Lewis and Harris; how many applications the Board of Agriculture have in hand from men in these districts desirous of obtaining holdings; an I what step? the Board is taking to meet the requirements of these applicants?"
§ Sir J. GILMOURThe number of applications received by the Board of Agriculture for Scotland for new holdings in Lewis and Harris which remains undisposed of is 746. The Board are at present considering the possibility of effecting further settlements in Harris, but I would remind the hon. Member that land suitable for sub-division and close settlement in the area referred to in his question is very limited and it is not desirable that all farms of size should be broken up into small holdings.