§ 37. Mr. SEXTONasked the hon. and gallant Member for Rye, as representing the Forestry Commissioners, what progress has been made in the scheme for additional tree planting in or near Special Areas to help in reducing unemployment?
§ Colonel Sir GEORGE COURTHOPE (Forestry Commissioner)Forestry nursery operations have started in the English and Welsh Special Areas, negotiations for plantable land are proceeding, a number of forest workers' holdings have been planned and the erection of the houses and outbuildings will now be proceeded with. The planting season does not begin until November, but draining and fencing will be undertaken as soon as possession has been secured of new land.
§ Mr. SEXTONCan the hon. and gallant Gentleman say how many unemployed have been set to work on this scheme?
§ Sir G. COURTHOPEI am afraid that I cannot answer that question, but the number must be considerable. Over 5,000,000 plants have been lined out in Wales alone.
§ Mr. MATHERSAre similar developments being contemplated in Scotland?
§ Sir G. COURTHOPEWe have not received instructions.