HC Deb 12 April 1951 vol 486 cc1188-9
53. Major Legge-Bourke

asked the Minister of Agriculture how many part-time holdings have been provided over the last two years by the Forestry Commission for their employees.

Mr. T. Williams

Owing to the acute shortage of housing accommodation for their employees, the Forestry Commissioners have, since the war, concentrated on the provision of houses as distinct from holdings, and only 11 part-time holdings have been provided over the last two years.

Major Legge-Bourke

Does the right hon. Gentleman propose to continue this policy of providing part-time holdings for employees of the Forestry Commission while at the same time telling county councils that they cannot renew the leases of part-time smallholdings in their areas when they fall in?

Mr. Williams

Yes, as and when opportunities occur, since a Forestry Commission holding is very different from a smallholding.

Major Legge-Bourke

Will the right hon. Gentleman say how they are different?