HC Deb 17 March 1930 vol 236 cc1697-8
44. Sir D. NEWTON

asked the Minister of Agriculture when the departmental investigation into the scheme for setting up a grain imports board in this country is likely to be completed; and whether it is the intention of His Majesty's Government to make no announcement of their agricultural policy until this investigation is at an end?

Land let in small holdings by Local Authorities under the Small Holdings Acts.
I.—County Councils.
County. Area on the 18th December, 1918. Area on the 31st December, 1929. Area newly acquired during year ended 31st December, 1929.
ENGLAND: Acres. Acres. Acres.
Bedfordshire 5,727 13,247 4
Berkshire 3,056 4,809 10
Bucks 4,584 11,039 71
Cambs. 9,729 18,839 7
Cheshire 4,673 10,129 228
Cornwall 2,883 11,749 373
Cumberland 675 1,363
Derby 1,138 3,014
Devon 8,615 15,945 166
Dorset 3,567 10,635 221
Durham 2,450 4,033
Essex 3,159 7,139 96
Gloucester 3,560 14,051
Hants 1,858 4,683 1
Mr. N. BUXTON

The scheme referred to by the hon. Member is, as he will appreciate, one of great complexity, and while I can assure him that the necessary inquiries are taking place with all reasonable expedition, I cannot at present forecast the date of their completion. In reply to the last part of the question, I would beg to refer the hon. Member to the answer which I gave to the hon. Member for Eye (Mr. Granville) on 16th December.