HC Deb 13 March 1922 vol 151 cc1784-6W
Mr. HOGGE

asked the Secretary for Scotland as to the number of civilian and ex-service men, respectively, registered as smallholders on the estates owned by Lord Lovat in the county of Inverness since 1912; and the number of such men placed on other than Crown property on any part of the mainland of the county since 1916?

Mr. MUNRO

I am not aware that any men have been registered as smallholders on estates owned by Lord Lovat in the county of Inverness since 1912. Since 1916 three civilians have been placed on new holdings and 49 civilians and one ex-service man have obtained enlargements of existing holdings under schemes promoted by the Board of Agriculture for Scotland on the mainland of Inverness on land which is not Crown property.

Mr. HOGGE

further asked the Secretary for Scotland as to the number of ex-service men placed by the Board of Agriculture on new holdings up to 28th February, 1922; the total number of such men registered as smallholders, giving the total numbers placed and registered, respectively, on lands purchased and acquired by the Board since 1916, lands purchased and acquired by the Forestry Commission since its inception, all other landed property of the Crown in Scotland, and lands of all other proprietors in Scotland; and the total number of ex-service men registered as new holders who have received a sum exceeding £200 on loan for equipment?

Mr. MUNRO

The number of ex-service men placed on new holdings by the Board up to the 28th ultimo was 900, of whom 74 are registered as smallholders. On lands acquired by the Board since 1916 557 have been placed, of whom one is registered. On lands acquired by the Forestry Commission the Board have not so far placed any holders. On other Crown property 39 have been placed, of whom six are registered. The numbers of those placed and registered on other lands are 304 and 67, respectively. Nine ex-service men registered as holders have received equipment loans exceeding £200. Similar loans have been given to 221 ex-service who have signed bonds and agreed to become registered as holders, and offers of similar loans have been made to 305 ex-service men.

Mr. HOGGE

asked the Secretary for Scotland whether any attempt has been made to procure land from the Scottish Land and Property Federation; whether ho has requested any members of the federation to place land at his disposal for ex-service men; whether the federation has been able to help him in any way; whether any schemes for settlement are at the moment delayed until the federation is in a position to reply; and, if so, what such schemes are?

Mr. MUNRO

Conversations have recently taken place between the Board and the Scottish Land and Property Federation as to the possibility of securing their assistance in obtaining suitable lands for settlement. I am hopeful that advantage may result from this course. No schemes of settlement are being delayed by the negotiations with the federation.