§ 28. Mr. R. Gibsonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what further steps he has been taking, in view of the progressive diminution of grazing lands in Scotland consequent on the ploughing-up campaign, to make available deer-forest land for grazing and other agricultural purposes?
§ The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. T. Johnston)A circular has been sent to the Agricultural Executive Committees for the Highland districts stressing the importance of seeing that the fullest use is made this year of deer-forest grazing and intimating that I am ready to take possession of any deer forest which cannot be put into full productive use by agreement with the owner. No forest for which stock can be found should be left ungrazed during the coming summer.
§ Mr. GibsonCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether, in fact, he has taken over any deer forests, and can he give any indication as to how many sheep are at present being grazed on these forests?
§ Mr. JohnstonThe answer to the first part of my hon. and learned Friend's supplementary question is in the affirmative. We have already taken over two deer forests, and, if necessary, for the reasons given in my answer, we are ready to take over more.
§ Mr. GibsonCan the right hon. Gentleman give the names of these deer forests?
§ Mr. JohnstonThere are the Forest of Killilan, in Ross-shire, and the Forest of Benmore, in Sutherland.
§ Mr. GibsonIn view of the wide interest of this matter to the agricultural community in Scotland, can the right hon. Gentleman say whether he has in mind any other action in connection with it?
§ Mr. JohnstonI think I cannot go beyond the answer I have given.
§ Mr. MaxtonHave the terms been settled by the existing owners, and can the right hon. Gentleman tell us what they are?
§ Mr. JohnstonI could not do so without notice,