HC Deb 03 March 1936 vol 309 cc1191-2
63. Mr. EVERARD

asked the hon. and gallant Member for Rye, as representing the Forestry Commissioners, the amount and value of the damage sustained from fire by the holdings of the Forestry Commission during the last three years, respectively?

Colonel Sir GEORGE COURTHOPE

In 1933 the Forestry Commissioners lost 1,297 acres of plantations by fire, the damage amounting to £2,19,000. In 1934 — 741 acres, £11,000 damage. In 1935 — 259 acres, £4,300 damage. It may be of interest to report that already this year the desiccated state of ground vegetation following the recent prolonged frosts has led to the loss by fire of 1,160 acres, £12,000 damage.

Mr. EVERARD

Where have these fires taken place this year and what protective measures do the Commissioners take to prevent fires?

Sir G. COURTHOPE

The most serious fire was in Glamorganshire, but there have been minor fires elsewhere. There are extensive fire protection plans and a lot of money is spent, but there is an economic limit to the expenditure that we can afford for the purpose.

Mr. DAY

Was anything recoverable from insurance?

Sir G. COURTHOPE

They are not insured. Occasionally, when the source of a fire can be traced, a claim is made, but generally it is very difficult to trace the source of a fire.