Mr. E. DAVIESasked the hon. Member for Monmouth, as representing the Forestry Commissioners, how many acres were afforested in Wales and Monmouthshire in the years 1923, 1924 and 1925; and the cost per acre, including the cost of the land?
§ Sir L. FORESTIER-WALKERThe Forestry Commissioners afforested 5,006 acres in Wales and Monmouthshire in the three forest years ended 30th September, 1925. The cost of establishment was £10 10s. per acre including preparing the ground, draining, fencing, cost of plants and planting, and also beating up and weeding in subsequent years, but not supervision. Most of this land is held on long leases at rates equivalent to a capital cost of slightly under £3 per acre; the total inclusive figure asked for is therefore approximately £13 10s. per acre.