HC Deb 19 May 1947 vol 437 cc2005-6
51. Mr. Vane

asked the Minister of Agriculture what plans he has for making a new census of British woodlands; when it is intended to start; and when he estimates it will be complete.

Mr. T. Williams

The Forestry Commissioners are already, engaged on a new census of British woodlands. The aim is to complete it by June, 1949.

Mr. Vane

Since the right hon. Gentleman has repeatedly represented that the Forestry Commission is very short staffed and overworked, can he assure us that it has sufficient skilled staff to carry out this extra work? Will he give an assurance that the Commission's officers will not enter private woodlands, to obtain information without proper notice?

Mr. Williams

We are hopeful that our technical staff will be large enough for the job.

Mr. Vane

What about the second part of my supplementary question?