§ Mr. MACKARNESSasked the hon. Member for South Somerset whether the President of the Board of Agriculture has been officially informed that Reading University College has decided to close the poultry farm at Theale; and, if so, whether in view of the valuable work which has been for some years carried on at this institution for the development of the poultry industry, the Board will make a grant for the purpose of enabling this poultry farm to continue its educational and experimental work?
§ Sir E. STRACHEYYes; we have received a communication from the Reading College to the effect suggested in the question. There is no doubt as to the value of the instruction given at. Theale, and we hope that it may be possible to arrange for the continuance of the farm either as an integral part of the work of the college or tinder a separate governing body. The funds at present at the disposal of the Board are insufficient to enable them at present to promise a grant, but, as my hon. Friend is aware, the whole subject of the assistance given to agricultural instruction is now under consideration.