§ Mr. FIELDasked whether the Department of Agriculture in Ireland have allotted plots on the model farm, Glasnevin, for the cultivation of tobacco, and whether they are giving instructions in tobacco culture; whether it is proposed to make experiments in the species most suited to the soil and climate of Ireland; and whether the model farm is open for inspection to the public or to the elected bodies.
§ Mr. BIRRELLExperiments in tobacco growing are not conducted on the farm attached to the Albert Agricultural College, Glasnevin. No necessity for instituting such experiments has arisen as the growers who are carrying out the experiments on a commercial scale now in progress have undertaken to make, in addition, such tests of manures, varieties of seed, as the Department of Agriculture may require from time to time. All experiments are carried out under the supervision of the tobacco expert employed by the Department, who gives instruction as required to the growers. One hundred and sixty-two varieties, hybrids and selections of seed, have already been tested, and several varieties have been selected as suitable for growing in Ireland. The Department are glad to afford facilities for 347W inspecting the farm at the Albert Agricultural College to members of public bodies and others interested in the work.