§ 33 Mr. M. MacPhersonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received from the Scottish National Farmers' Union in connection with the problem of securing increased production from marginal land 937 and marginal farms; and what reply he has given.
§ Mr. WoodburnA memorandum, dated 8th November, by the National Farmers' Union of Scotland on the marginal land problem has been received and is being examined. The problem is a difficult one, and my hon. Friend will not expect me now to say more than that the recommendations made by the Union will receive careful consideration in connection with the general review of the position which is being undertaken by the Departments concerned.
§ Mr. SnaddenCan the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that this matter will be treated as a matter of urgency in view of the fact that 10 per cent. of all farms in Scotland fall into the category to which these recommendations refer?
§ Mr. WoodburnIt is a very important question and it will be given serious consideration.