HC Deb 16 July 1969 vol 787 cc108-9W
Mr. James Davidson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland why the planting of trees for shelter and amenity on smallholdings is ineligible for grant, in view of the fact that similar plantations on registered crofts or on large holdings are eligible.

Mr. Ross

I assume the hon. Member is referring to grants for shelter belts under the Farm Improvement Scheme. In terms of Section 30 of the Agriculture Act, 1967, these, like all other grants under that scheme, are available only where the land to benefit is capable of yielding a sufficient livelihood to an occupier reasonably skilled in husbandry. This test does not apply to crofting grants.