§ Sir B. STANIERasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture how many insurance societies for cottagers' and smallholders' livestock have been created under the new scheme of the Ministry; and what are the animals insured and the rates of the premiums?
Sir A. BOSCAWENThe action taken by the Ministry in regard to this matter consists in holding meetings in villages at which cottagers and smallholders are advised to form societies for the mutual insurance of pigs and cattle. It is known that a number of such societies have been formed as a result of these meetings, but the exact number and the other particulars asked for cannot be given, as the Ministry does not exercise any control over such societies, its action in the matter being confined to propaganda. Rules for the societies have been printed and circulated, and these rules contain particulars as to the premium rates which are recommended by the Ministry. A copy of these rules, which are at present under revision, will be sent to my hon. and gallant Friend as soon as copies are available.