HC Deb 13 July 1937 vol 326 cc1042-3
29. Mr. Mathers

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the number of new holdings provided under the Small Landholders (Scotland) Acts in each of the last five years to the nearest convenient date; and whether he has under consideration methods for increasing such settlement on the land?

Mr. Elliot

As the answer to the first part of the question involves a number of figures I propose, with the hon. Member's permission, to circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT. With regard to the last part of the question, the Government will continue to proceed with land settlement as opportunities offer and suitable lands become available.

Mr. Mathers

In view of the fact that so little is taking place in this regard—I know that without the figures—will not the right hon. Gentleman consult his technical staff with a view to expediting such settlement?

Mr. M. MacMillan

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that 4,000 people have been waiting for years in the Western Isles and that there are millions of acres unused except for his pleasure and that of his hon. and right hon. Friends?

Mr. Elliot

The hon. Member would be very disappointed if I entered upon a discussion of this matter at Question Time.

Following are the figures:

The number of applicants provided with holdings and enlargements under the Small Landholders (Scotland) Acts in each of the five years to December, 1936, is as follows:

Year. Holdings. Enlargements.
1932 … … 132 7
1933 … … 76 17
1934 … … 61 33
1935 … … 132 5
1936 … … 81 12