§ 21. Lord Malcolm Douglas-Hamiltonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many hill farming schemes in Scotland under the Livestock Rearing Act were approved in the last 12 months; and how much increase this represents in cattle and sheep, respectively.
§ Mr. SnaddenDuring the 12 months ended 31st March, 1952, 134 comprehensive improvement schemes under the Hill Farming Act, 1946, and Livestock Rearing Act, 1951, were formally approved. No increases in cattle and sheep can have occurred as yet as a result of the approval of these schemes. The improvement which will eventually follow will, however, be much reflected in the health and quality of the livestock as in increased livestock numbers.
§ Lord Malcolm Douglas-HamiltonWhile these figures are very gratifying, will my hon. Friend beat in mind that the figures of increase in cattle and sheep, and thereby an increase in food for Britain, undoubtedly would be very greatly improved if some equitable arrangement for freight charges, particularly for feedingstuffs, could be arranged?
§ Mr. SnaddenThat is a separate question that should be addressed to another Minister.