§ 90. Mr. SHORTasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he proposes to restore the financial assistance given to the unemployed in the provision of allotments, seeds, and tools; and whether he will re-appoint the central committee set up under the Utilisation Act, 1931?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Ramsbotham)During the last three 1758 years, grants have been made from the Development Fund to the Society of Friends, to supplement funds obtained that society from private sources, for the purpose of assisting the provision of seeds, tools and fertilizers to unemployed and partly employed persons cultivating allotments. The money available up to date has, I am glad to say, been more than sufficient to meet all demands. The grants from the Development Fund are being continued this year. In these circumstances there appears to be no need for the re-appointment of the Central Allotments Committee. As regards the provision of allotments for unemployed persons, the Commissioner for the Special Areas is prepared to make grants for the purpose of assisting the local authorities in those areas to provide more allotments.