§ Mr. W. GRAHAMasked the Secretary for Scotland what amount has been expended or authorised to be spent during the current financial year of the £4,000 per annum provided under Clause 18 (3) of the Land Settlement (Scotland) Act, 1919, for the purpose of encouraging and developing the provision of allotments throughout Scotland; and whether, in the event of the full £4,000 not being spent in any one year, the unexpended balance 57W will be carried forward for use in future years?
§ Mr. MUNRONo expenditure has yet been incurred or authorised under the provision to which my hon. Friend refers. The Board of Agriculture have under consideration a scheme for improving the general working of allotments and for extending allotments in suitable areas. This scheme, I am informed, would involve the expenditure of more than half the sum available this year. I am advised that the answer to the second part of the question is in the negative.
§ Mr. W. GRAHAMasked the Secretary for Scotland whether he proposes to exercise, in terms of Clause 19 of the Land Settlement (Scotland) Act of 1919, his power to require town councils to appoint committees to consult with the councils on matters relating to the provision, equipment, and management of allotments; and, if so, at what date such power will be exercised?
§ Mr. MUNROI am prepared to exercise the power referred to by my hon. Friend in cases where this course seems to be desirable. The Board of Agriculture for Scotland have been in communication on the subject with a number of town councils, and I am now considering the information thus obtained, with a view to taking action where that course appears to be proper.