§ Sir T. DAVIESasked the Minister of Labour whether he can sanction the retention of the county land drainage officers beyond 31st July next, as otherwise such officers will then be dismissed and in the autumn fresh officers will have to be appointed; and whether county agricultural committees may have an early decision on this point?
Mr. WOODI have been asked to reply. The retention of the officers in question is dependent upon the continuance next winter of the Ministry's land drainage schemes for the relief of unemployment. This matter is still under consideration by His Majesty's Government, but I hope to be able to make an announcement very soon.