72. Major THOMASasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Trade, as representing the Forestry Commissioners, if he will state what were the causes of the fires which resulted in heavy losses on Government plantations during the year ended 31st March, 1930; and what special steps have been, or are being, taken to prevent such losses in the future?
§ Mr. W. R. SMITHThe causes of the fires on the plantations of the Forestry Commissioners during the year ended 31st March, 1930, were as follow: Railways, 43 per cent. of the total, general public 31 per cent., road engines 7 per cent., from adjoining land 6 per cent., unknown 6 per cent., probably incendiaries 3 per cent., Commission's employés 2 per cent., and miscellaneous 2 per cent. The Commission's methods of forest fire protection and control were reviewed, and revised instructions issued.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYIs this property insured?