§ 19. Mr. HURDasked the Minister of Transport to what extent advantage has been taken of recent legislative provisions for the planting of trees along new roads; and what kind of trees are being so planted?
§ The MINISTER of TRANSPORT (Colonel Ashley)I am glad to say from my own observation that local authorities generally are taking advantage of the powers recently conferred upon them for the planting of roadside trees—the species adopted depending upon the varying conditions of climate and subsoil encountered in different parts of the country. Another important factor is the amount of space available for the further growth and spread of the trees.
§ Mr. HURDMay I ask whether the right hon. Gentleman's observations lead him to believe that fruit trees are included?
§ Colonel ASHLEYNo, not generally. The difficulty is as to what boys may do. The hon. Member will appreciate the fact that this tree planting takes place on the new broad roads and that fruit trees do not grow tall enough to be in proportion to the width of the roadway.
§ Mr. AUSTIN HOPKINSONIs it any use planting trees on the roadsides when the Postmaster-General plants scores of telegraph poles?
§ Colonel ASHLEYThe Postmaster-General and myself work in collaboration, and he always removes a telegraph pole where I want to plant a tree.
§ Lieut.-Colonel JAMESIs the right hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that in a good many cases deciduous trees have been planted which, after they attained maturity, will shed their leaves and make the roads extremely "skiddy"?
§ Colonel ASHLEYAll these matters are being considered, but I do not think I find myself in agreement with my hon. and gallant Friend.
§ Lieut.-Colonel JAMESNot even as regards the chestnut tree?