§ Mr. WARDLAW-MILNEasked the Minister of Agric Attire what is the number and total acreage of small holdings above one acre and under 50 acres in the County of Worcester; what number and acreage are on land belonging to the county council; how many approved applicants for holdings are there; how many applicants are still awaiting interview; and what capital per acre is regarded as the minimum necessary for approval of any applicant?
Mr. GUINNESSThe number of agricultural holdings above one acre and not exceeding 50 acres in Worcestershire, as recorded in the Acricultural Returns for 1026, was 6,015. The acreage of approximately the same number of holdings in 1924 was 71460 acres, which is the latest available figure. The county council have provided 1,085 holdings on an area of 5,095 acres either purchased or leased by them. All approved applicants under the Land Settlement Scheme have been supplied with holdings. Out of 20 fresh applicants, 11 have been satisfied and nine remain to be dealt with. No rule has been laid down by the council as to the amount of capital to be held by applicants, each case being dealt with on its merits.
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§ Sir D. NEWTONasked the Minister of Agriculture if he is aware of the difficulties which have arisen in conection with the numerous loans raised for varying periods by local authorities for small holdings purposes; and whether he is prepared to confer with the county council association with a view to consolidating them?
Mr. GUINNESSI am aware of the difficulties, but there are objections to consolidation of loans with different periods. I propose to confer with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Health on the subject, and will afterwards communicate with my hon. Friend.