26. Mr. G. Wilsonasked the Minister of Transport what are the functions of the horticulturist and assistant horticulturist in his Department, referred to in the Civil Estimates, Class VI, page 145.
§ Mr. BarnesThe duties of the two officers are to prepare, supervise and coordinate planting schemes on trunk roads; to advise on contracts for the propagation and production of plants and to supervise the growth of the stock; and to ensure economy in the supply and use of plants and their subsequent upkeep. They also examine planting proposals submitted by local highway authorities in connection with applications for grants from the Road Fund.
Mr. WilsonIs the Minister aware that the combined estimate for these two gentlemen is £1,788, and can he say how much of their time is taken up in dealing with roundabouts such as my hon. Friend suggested?
Mr. Charles Ian Orr-EwingCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether these 1884 gentlemen have a good knowledge of pruning?
§ Sir William DarlingDo these gentlemen do anything towards the discontinuation of weeds along our public roads which interfere with farm crops?
§ Mr. BarnesThe construction of roadways and their planting can add considerably to the amenities. Highway authorities need the advice of central experts on these matters, and I do not think that this expenditure ought to be begrudged.
§ Mr. P. ThorneycroftWould not the Minister agree that this is a gross waste of public money? Is it not a monstrous thing that poor people should have to pay Purchase Tax in order to pay the salaries of gentlemen who then go out and plant out our highways?