§ 52. Mr. Parkerasked the hon. and gallant Member for Rye, as representing the Forestry Commissioners, what is the approximate total acreage of drainage areas belonging to water boards and hydro-electric undertakings, respectively, in Great Britain; the acreage afforested and suitable for afforestation in each of 179 these areas; and the powers possessed and steps taken to encourage their afforestation; and whether the Forestry Commissioners intend to seek compulsory powers to have these areas planted?
§ Colonel Sir George Courthope (Forestry Commissioner)The Forestry Commissioners have no specific information regarding the areas referred to. The Commissioners make monetary grants to encourage afforestation and give advice in relation to planting. They do not intend to seek the suggested compulsory powers.
§ Mr. ParkerIn view of the importance of making the best use of our land, would it not be possible for the Forestry Commission to secure the co-operation of other Departments in collecting this information?
§ 53. Mr. Sextonasked the hon. and gallant Member for Rye, as representing the Forestry Commissioners, the number of acres of land for afforestation within the county of Durham which have been finally secured under the scheme for extra planting to assist in setting to work unemployed persons in the Special Areas; and how many Durham County unemployed have been actually set to work under the scheme, the situation of such land, and the districts from which the unemployed have been drawn?
§ Sir G. CourthopeThe Forestry Commissioners have not finally secured any land within the county of Durham under the Special Areas scheme or set to work under the scheme any Durham County unemployed. A contract has however been completed for the acquisition of 403 acres of land near Wolsingham, County Durham.
§ Mr. SextonIs the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that the unemployed in the county of Durham think the treatment has been neither honourable nor gallant?