Forestry

HC Deb 02 July 1962 vol 662 cc13-4

10. Mr. Boyden

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many other schemes similar to the profitable joint forestry enterprise of the Liverpool Corporation and the Forestry Commission at Lake Vyrnwy are in operation; and how many similar schemes are contemplated.

Mr. Vane

The Lake Vyrnwy scheme is the only one of its kind. The Forestry Commission has no similar schemes in view, but it is always prepared to consider proposals from local authorities.

Mr. Boyden

In view of this very successful collaboration between the local authorities and the Commission, will the Minister consider encouraging the Forestry Commission to plant, in conjunction with the local authorities, derelict land such as pit heaps and places of that kind, particularly in County Durham?

Mr. Vane

In the course of its years of operation, the Forestry Commission has purchased a great deal of derelict land and planted it, to the benefit of local districts as well as of our timber supply; but I think that the hon. Gentleman has something rather wider in mind, and I shall consider what he has said.