HC Deb 16 May 1933 vol 278 cc170-1
2. Lord SCONE

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland why the vacancy on the technical staff of the Department of Agriculture for Scotland, caused by the death of Mr. Mather in August, 1931, has not yet been filled; and whether he will consider the advisability of immediately filling the vacancy?

Sir G. COLLINS

The post of Chief Technical Officer in the Land Division of the Department has remained vacant Since August, 1931, on account of the overriding necessity for economy in administrative expenditure. The matter will be reviewed in the autumn of this year.

Lord SCONE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the progress of land settlement is being delayed by lack of a head of the technical staff?

Sir G. COLLINS

I have made inquiries and have satisfied myself that no aspect of the Board's work has suffered through the lack of this appointment.

Sir MURDOCH McKENZIE WOOD

Surely my right hon. Friend cannot say that a Department of this kind can go for 18 months without a head, and no harm is being done to the work that it is proposed to do?

Sir G. COLLINS

During the 18 months referred to the activities of the Land Settlement Department have not been so great as in former years.

Mr. CHARLES WILLIAMS

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there-are far too many officials in Scotland?

Sir G. COLLINS

No, Sir.

Sir M. WOOD

Is it not the policy of the Government to push forward land settlement?

Sir G. COLLINS

Yes, but the sum available was reduced in August, 1931.