§ 49. Mr. HORE-BELISHAasked the hon. and gallant Member for Eye, as representing the Forestry Commissioners, whether his attention has been called to the large number of acres in Devon and Cornwall that were denuded of trees during the period of the War; and, seeing that large tracts of land suitable for forest holdings are available in these two counties, whether the Forestry Commission will consider the inclusion of the Western district when preparing their next 10 years' programme?
§ Sir G. COURTHOPEThe Forestry Commissioners are aware of the felled and devastated woodlands in Devon and Cornwall, the acreage according to the recently published Census of Woodlands being 11,344 in Devon or 14 per cent. of the total woodland area in that county, and 2,468 acres in Cornwall or about 9 1135 per cent. of the total woodland area in that county. The Commissioners have acquired over 5,000 "plantable" acres in Devon and over 1,200 in Cornwall, and they have planted over 3,400 acres in Devon and 700 in Cornwall. During the next 10 years they will continue to plant up the land already acquired and other land when acquired. Large tracts of land are not required for forest holdings as the number of holdings is limited to five for every 1,000 acres of "plantable" land, and the area of each holding is limited to 10 acres.
§ Mr. H0RE-BELISHAIs there any estimate made as to the number of unemployed men from Devonport and Plymouth who would be absorbed in this scheme?
§ Sir G. COURTHOPENot so far as I am aware.