§ Mr. T. SMITHasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he proposes to take any steps to ensure that the local authorities who are charged with the duty of providing allotments and allotment gardens are carrying out their obligations in the matter, in order to meet the demand on the part of persons who desire to cultivate a small piece of land in their spare time?
Mr. SMITHYes, Sir. The information at present being collected from local authorities, although not yet complete,1630W shows that there is a considerable unsatisfied demand for allotments in certain parts of England and Wales. My right hon. Friend has, therefore, arranged for circular letters to be issued to the county, borough, urban district and parish councils, and to parish meetings, calling attention to the powers which they possess of acquiring land for the purpose of allotments and allotment gardens. He is glad to have this opportunity of recording his opinion that the extension of the allotment movement, both in the urban and rural districts, is a matter of the greatest national and social importance, and he will do everything possible to stimulate local authorities in regard to the provision of land for the purpose.