§ 36. Sir P. Hurdasked the Minister of Agriculture how much agricultural land has been put out of cultivation in the past two years by urban encroachments and by appropriation for military or other Government purposes?
§ Mr. W. S. MorrisonIt it estimated that in the 24 months in question, of a net decrease of 154,136 acres in the total area of agricultural land, about half was diverted to building and other development and about 24,000 acres were utilised for military or other Government purposes. I have no information to show what proportion of this diverted acreage consisted of cultivated land.
§ Sir P. HurdIs due care taken, in connection with these acquisitions, to consult with the local agricultural authorities, in order to see whether alternative land is available?
§ Mr. MorrisonWith regard to housing development, the matter is looked at from the point of view of Defence and from the point of view of the community in placing houses. There is consultation with the agricultural authorities.
§ Mr. T. WilliamsIs the Minister aware that some of the finest agricultural land has been appropriated in the last few 21 years for military purposes, and does he not think more care should be exercised in the appropriation of land for those purposes?
§ Mr. MorrisonI would not agree that due care is not exercised. When land of that character is needed for military purposes there is consultation, so that military needs may be met with the least possible disturbance of agricultural requirements.