HC Deb 10 November 1964 vol 701 cc831-2
Q4. Mr. Wingfield Digby

asked the Prime Minister by what authority responsibility for the Forestry Commission has been transferred from the Minister of Agriculture personally, as laid down in the Forestry Act, 1945, to the Minister of Land and Natural Resources.

The Prime Minister

The transfer of responsibility for the Forestry Commission in England and Wales from my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food to my right hon. Friend the Minister of Land and Natural Resources will be made by an order under the Ministers of the Crown (Transfer of Functions) Act, 1946, and laid before Parliament.

Mr. Digby

Is not it already laid down by Statute where this power is to go? Is it not undesirable that where the House has made a decision by Statute it should be overruled so easily? While we appreciate that the Prime Minister has been associated with the importation of timber into this country more than with its growth at home, either by the Forestry Commission or by private persons, will he remember that this is an important industry to which many of us attach great importance?

The Prime Minister

I think that the hon. Gentleman is confusing an assurance given during the passing of the Forestry Act, 1945. An assurance was given only because there was some fear that under the Ministry of Agriculture the Minister would prefer agricultural considerations to those of forestry. The Forestry Commission has now a Minister of its own and it will be even better looked after than in the past.

Mr. Noble

Can the Prime Minister tell the House whether the relationship between the Secretary of State for Scotland and the Forestry Commission remains as it was before?

The Prime Minister

It remains exactly as it was before.

Sir D. Walker-Smith

The right hon. Gentleman referred to laying an Order in Council. Would he confirm that this Order in Council will attract the Affirmative Resolution procedure and that therefore there will be an opportunity for debate and, if necessary, decision by the House?

The Prime Minister

I believe that is so.