§ 48. Mr. WELLOCKasked the hon. and gallant Member for Rye, as representing 1134 the Forestry Commissioners, if he is aware that the Reconstruction Committee recommended a planting programme of 1,180,000 acres for the first 40 years; that, according to the present programme, less than one-third of the recommended programme will have been carried out at the end of 20 years; and whether, in view of the suitability of miners for this work, the Forestry Commissioners propose to apply for an increased programme as a means of finding useful work for unemployed miners, whose idleness is costing the country£60 per man per year?
§ Sir G. COURTHOPEThe Forestry Commissioners are aware of the facts stated by the hon. Member. An increased planting programme would entail increased expenditure, and in that connection I refer to the latter part of the answer to the question which the hon. Member put to the Chancellor of the Exchequer on the 31st July last.
§ Mr. WELLOCKHas not the unemployment situation considerably altered, and, in view of the fact that it is neccessary to find work for unemployed miners, will not special steps be taken to see that an increased grant is received from the Treasury?
§ Sir G. COURTHOPEThat question must be put to the Chancellor of the Exchequer. The Forestry Commission cannot answer it.