§ Mr. R. Gibsonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will state 1202W the number of allotments cultivated in Scotland during each of the last seven years, and the cause or causes inducing the trend of the figures; and what proposals he has to meet the present position with regard to allotments in Scotland?
§ Mr. ColvilleAccording to returns furnished by local authorities the numbers of allotments cultivated in Scotland during the last seven years were:
1932 … … … 17,514 1933 … … … 21,417 1934 … … … 22,177 1935 … … … 21,880 1936 … … … 21,682 1937 … … … 20,492 1938 … … … 19,376 It is difficult to explain completely the reasons for the reduction since 1934. The provision of gardens in connection with new housing schemes and increased employment, in some districts have probably been contributing causes.
I am communicating with local authorities on the general question of the provision of allotments.