Earl of Dalkeithasked the Secretary of State for Wales what is his latest estimate of the cumulative acreage of non-productive woodland in Wales; what percentage change he anticipates during each of the next five years; and what plans he has for encouraging a faster rate of private investment in the conversion of such woodlands into full productive use in the interests of the balance of payments situation for many years to come.
§ Mr. James GriffithsAbout 50,000 acres. I cannot forecast the change in this area, which will depend on its private owners. They are already encouraged by the existing grants paid by the Forestry Commission.