HC Deb 09 November 1943 vol 393 c1060
6. Mr. Lindsay

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many Young Farmers' Clubs exist in Scotland; how many are attached to schools; and how much public money is spent in their assistance?

Mr. Johnston

There are 57 Young Farmers' Clubs in Scotland, of which 34 are active, the remainder having suspended their activities during the war. There are no clubs attached to schools although in some cases headmasters have interested themselves in the welfare of Clubs. State grants of £250 per annum for the four years 1938–1941, £200 for 1942, and £175 for 1943 have been paid to the Scottish Association of Young Farmers' Clubs. The decreasing extent to which the Association is drawing on Exchequer funds reflects its increasing revenue from other sources.

Mr. Lindsay

Will my right hon. Friend look into this matter, because the disparity between England and Scotland is very noticeable? Will he consider remitting it to his Advisory Council and see that some inquiry is made into agricultural education in Scotland?

Mr. Johnston

I will look into that point.