§ 38. Mr. Willisasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many acres of land in Scotland were reclaimed for agricultural purposes with assistance of reclamation grants during the year 1958–59.
§ The Joint Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Gilmour Leburn)During the financial year 1958–59 grants totalling approximately £34,000 were paid under the Farm Improvement Scheme, the Hill Farming and Livestock Rearing Acts, the Marginal Agricultural Production Scheme and the Crofters Agricultural Grants Scheme in respect of the reclamation of some 2,000 acres for agricultural purposes. It is not possible to say how much of this reclamation was actually carried out in 1958–59 and how much in earlier years.
§ Mr. WillisI had difficulty in hearing that reply, but, if I heard it aright, may I ask if the hon. Gentleman is aware that it is scandalous that the amount being reclaimed is falling, and that there is a 1127 vast area in Scotland about which something ought to be done? Will he press this matter upon his right hon. Friend?
§ Mr. LeburnThe figure of 2,000 acres is not substantially less than that in previous years, and I consider that there are ample incentives under existing schemes to bring land back into agricultural use.