HC Deb 01 March 1932 vol 262 c928
9. Lord SCONE

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is now in a position to state what grants will be available for land drainage in Scotland during the current year?

Sir A. SINCLAIR

Arrangements have been made for the continuance during the coming year of the scheme of assistance for field drainage works in Scotland. Owing to the pressing need for economy, however, the amount available for grants will be reduced, and it is necessary to limit the maximum amount of grant to one-fourth of the cost of approved works. The Department of Agriculture for Scotland have issued a notice to the Press inviting applications for grants on this basis.

Colonel CLIFTON BROWN

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether this work is confined to Scotland, or whether England benefits too?

Sir A. SINCLAIR

I am replying for Scotland only.

Mr. T. WILLIAMS

Does not the right hon. Gentleman think it might help to balance our trade if more land were drained and more food were grown here?