§ 54. Mr. MORGAN JONESasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if his attention has been drawn to the effects of the drought in Cyprus, where peasants, for lack of pasturage, are selling animals at any price, and at a loss of £40 in some cases; if he is aware that sheep and lambs have died from starvation, and the 306 price of straw for feeding animals has increased by about 3,000 per cent.; and what action it is proposed to take in the interests of the peasantry?
§ Sir R. HAMILTONYes, Sir. My right hon. Friend has been in communication with the Governor regarding the effects of the drought in Cyprus, and I understand that steps are being taken to aid stock-owners by the issue of permits for grazing in the forests, by encouraging the import of straw, and by means of a scheme for feeding stock on crushed locust beans. In addition to these measures, it is hoped to alleviate the distress in certain districts by providing employment under road schemes.
§ Mr. MACQUISTENHow is it proposed to encourage the import of straw? Will a bounty be given?