§ 38. Mr. MATHERSasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many acres of land have been acquired by the Department of Agriculture for Scotland for land settlement in the Highlands, excluding the Islands, since 1931; how many holders have been settled thereupon; and whether such lands formed parts of deer forests or of arable farming lands?
§ Sir G. COLLINSSince 1st January, 1931, the Department of Agriculture for Scotland purchased in the Highlands, excluding the Islands, approximately 4,890 acres for land settlement; in addition the Department carried out on private estates schemes comprising an area of approximately 26,000 acres. On these 217 areas 89 new holders and 107 enlargement holders have been settled. The land in question did not form part of deer forests, approximately 4,900 acres being arable and the remainder pastoral lands.
§ Mr. MATHERSDoes that mean that all those who wish to take up holdings have been satisfied?
§ Sir G. COLLINSI do not think my answer would convey that.
§ Mr. WESTWOODArising out of the first answer, can the right hon. Gentleman say how these figures compare with what was done between 1928 and 1931?
§ Sir G. COLLINSIf the hon. Member puts down a question on that point, I shall be very happy to give him the information.