§ Mr. Macleanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how much of the acreage of land used in Scotland for game preserves is affected by the growth of bracken; and whether, owing to the rapid spread of this weed in recent years, he will acquire compulsory powers to compel those owners to have their ground cleared of bracken?
§ Mr. ColvilleI regret that I am unable to give the particulars desired by the hon. Member. As regards the second part of the question, legislation for the purpose mentioned is not in contemplation.
§ Mr. Macleanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he is aware that more than 2,000,000 acres of land in Scotland are now rendered practically useless through the spread of bracken; that much of this land could be put to productive use if cleared; and what steps the Department of Agriculture for Scotland is taking to stop the spread of this weed and assist in clearing the ground?
§ Mr. ColvilleWhile I cannot accept the figure quoted by the hon. Member in the first part of the question, I agree that there has been for many years a serious encroachment of bracken on pastoral lands in certain parts of Scotland, and that much of this land could be made useful for grazing purposes. For the purpose of encouraging the cheapest and most efficient methods of destroying bracken the Department of Agriculture for Scotland have for the past three years approved grants amounting to over £4,000 towards the purchase of over 200 bracken cutting machines of approved types.