8. Mr. J. E. B. Hillasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food who and where are his official advisers on forestry matters.
§ The Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Mr. Fred Peart)The Forestry Commission act as the expert advisers on forestry to the responsible Minister who will in future be the Minister of Land and Natural Resources, but I shall continue to have a branch in my Ministry who, in consultation with the professional officers of the Agricultural Land Service, will advise me on the impact on agriculture from time to time of forestry developments and policy.
Mr. HillIs the right hon. Gentleman satisfied that this arrangement will give him power to discharge some of his important agricultural responsibilities, particularly the integration of agriculture and forestry in the marginal hill farming areas, and in ensuring that predominantly agricultural land does not go to forestry when it ought to be retained for food production?
§ Mr. PeartI am satisfied that the new arrangements will provide for adequate consultation, and I shall bear in mind the concern expressed by the hon. Gentleman.
§ Mr. ManuelCan my right hon. Friend say whether, in connection with the advice that he may receive regarding forestry matters in Scotland, he will consult the Secretary of State for Scotland before coming to a firm decision, although his Ministry has a prior right to make decisions?
§ Mr. PeartI assure my hon. Friend that on all matters I shall always keep in touch with my right hon. Friend.