§ 60. Mr. Snaddenasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware of the serious encroachment of bracken: on Scottish hill grazings and the consequent decline of stock-carrying capacity in these areas; and whether, in view of the ineffectiveness of the existing assistance offered owing to the steep and rough nature of much of the ground, he will consider measures of assistance in respect of bracken cut by hand labour?
§ Mr. ColvilleI am aware of the bracken problem to which my hon. Friend refers. As he is no doubt aware the object of the present scheme of assistance has been to encourage the development of machine cutting. Since 1936, grants have been paid in respect of the purchase of 136 machines capable of cutting over 17,000 acres twice a year (at the proper seasons). The total subsidies paid amount to £2,407. I am keeping the question under review.
§ Mr. SnaddenWill this matter be considered by the Minister of Agriculture in preparing his long-term policy for agriculture?
§ Mr. ColvilleThe matter is predominantly a Scottish question. I am examining it carefully in the light of my hon. Friend's question and of other information.
§ Colonel Sir Charles MacAndrewIs it not the case that in many part of Scotland it is impossible to cut the bracken by machinery?
Mr. JohnstonWhat is the total amount provided in the Estimates for research work into bracken? Ten pounds?
§ Mr. ColvillePerhaps the right hon. Gentleman had better give me notice of the question regarding the exact amount. In answer to the other supplementary questions, I am aware that it is difficult, if not impossible, for machines to work in certain country. The matter presents difficulties, but I am examining the whole problem.
§ Mr. R. GibsonIs the Minister keeping in view the possibility of reducing bracken by increasing the number of stock on the land?
§ Mr. ColvilleYes, Sir.
§ Mr. Neil MacLeanIs not the bracken peril increasing and not diminishing in Scotland, and will the Minister not take instant steps to have it dealt with?
§ Mr. ColvilleI have indicated that I am concerned about the growth of bracken.
§ Mr. MacleanWhat are you doing about it?