HC Deb 28 June 1910 vol 18 cc916-8W
Mr. HAYDN JONES

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture bow many inspectors are stationed in North Wales; how many have a knowlelge of Welsh; and whether, in view of the fact that English-speaking inspectors stationed in North Wales have to be accompanied by an interpreter, he will, to avoid expense, appoint inspectors who are able to speak the language of the people with whom they have to deal?

Sir E. STRACHEY

The number of inspectors stationed in North Wales varies according to the amount of work to be done. At the present time there are three, two of whom are Welshmen by birth, though only one of them speaks his native language. Effect will be given to the suggestion made by my hon. Friend as far as is practicable, but, as a matter of fact, no real difficulty is experienced by English-speaking inspectors, and it has never been found necessary to pay fees for interpreters.

Mr. HAYDN JONES

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture how many of the inspectors of the Board stationed in North Wales have had scientific training in agriculture and forestry; and whether, in view of the difficulty experienced by men so trained in obtaining appointments, he will consider the desirability of securing their services for the Board of Agriculture?

Sir E. STRACHEY

All the inspectors at present stationed in North Wales are employed on work arising under the Diseases of Animals Acts. Their duties are, to a great extent, of an administrative character, and scientific training in agriculture and forestry is not necessarily required for their performance. The Board will, however, always be glad to give full consideration to any applications for appointment which may be made by men of the class to which my hon. Friend refers.