§ Mr. S. MITCHELLasked the Secretary for Scotland the number of small holdings in Scotland; and what is the average annual increase?
§ Sir J. GILMOURThe number of holdings in Scotland exceeding one and not exceeding 50 acres in extent according to the returns made to the Board of Agriculture in 1924 was 50,545. Exact information as to the number exceeding 50 acres in extent but of an annual value not exceeding £50 is not available, but if this class and holdings of less than one acre be included the total number of small holdings is estimated at approximately 56,000. After decreasing for many years, the number reached a minimum in 1919; since that date there has been a net increase at the rate of about 120 per annum.