HC Deb 28 May 1963 vol 678 cc1113-5
Q1. Sir D. Robertson

asked the Prime Minister if, in the national interest, he will consider using the land, transport and labour resources of Caithness, Sutherland and Ross-shire for increased afforestation, and for the integrated milling of wood pulp and paper.

The Prime Minister (Mr. Harold Macmillan)

It is the Government's policy to increase afforestation through the Forestry Commission and to encourage wood-using industries.

The mill at Fort William towards which the Government are contributing loan capital of about £8 million to £10 million and which will cost some £19 million to £20 million in all as well as other existing wood-using industries, should for some time to come provide an outlet for wood grown in Caithness, Sutherland and Ross and Cromarty. But the Commission is always seeking suitable land to extend its operations.

Sir D. Robertson

Is the Prime Minister aware that the greatest obstacle to afforestation in these three counties is the unwillingness of the sporting landlords to grow trees themselves or to permit the Forestry Commission to grow them? Is he also aware that I spent a fortnight in the constituency, coming back on Sunday, and I met all the forestry officials, who were unanimous in this view? In view of this neglect, may I ask the Prime Minister to deal with this as a matter of national urgency?

The Prime Minister

The Forestry Commission is always looking for opportunities to extend its forests, but it is important to balance this with the proper outlets.

Mr. Grimond

Can the Prime Minister say whether the Forestry Commission is satisfied with the amount of land it has and, if not, whether the Government will take steps to assist the Commission? Secondly, can the right hon. Gentleman say whether, with a view to improving transport and providing more employment in the Highlands, he will set up a Highlands development authority?

The Prime Minister

The second part of the question is entirely different, and perhaps the right hon. Gentleman will put it on the Order Paper. As for the first part, nobody is ever satisfied, but I think that good progress is being made.