§ 54. Mr. LOUIS SMITHasked the Minister of Agriculture if he will state the number of allotments which have come into existence in the last 12 months; whether the 64,000 men who have been assisted with the provision of seeds and other requirements were also provided with allotments, or whether this represents a demand, and, if so, to what extent, by people who were already in possession of allotments?
§ Mr. THURTLEI have been asked to reply. The returns which are collected yearly relate to the position on 31st December, and no information is yet available as to the number of new allotments created for the unemployed. Particulars are being obtained by the Central Allotments Committee, but until the detailed returns are received from the districts, it is not possible to state the proportion of the 64,000 assisted unemployed persons for whom plots were provided for the first time. It is known, however, that, apart from new land provided, a large number 1723 of plots which have lain derelict for some time have again been brought into cultivation as a result of the scheme.
§ Mr. SMITHHaving regard to the failure of this scheme during the present season, will the hon. Gentleman make inquiry as to the reason why, in many districts, although land has been provided and this very generous scheme of low-priced materials has been offered, so few applications have been received?
§ Mr. THURTLEWithout admitting that the scheme has been a failure, I will see that the observation of the hon. Gentleman is conveyed to my right hon. friend.