Mr. Davidsonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland the total estimated number of crofters in Scotland; and what steps, consultative or otherwise, are being taken to ensure their participation in the nationally necessary agricultural effort for increased production?
§ Mr. ColvilleThe number of agricultural holdings not exceeding 50 acres in extent in the seven "crafting" counties is approximately 26,000. The agricultural executive committees in the crofting areas include a large number of crofters, and increased cultivation is being undertaken this year on crofts as well as on the larger farms. With a view to encouraging additional cultivation on even the smallest holdings, the minimum area qualifying for payment of the grassland subsidy has been reduced to one acre.560W Applications may also be submitted by township and grazing committees covering smaller areas on individual crofts. Arrangements have also been made for the distribution to crofter communities, through the Scottish Agricultural Organisation Society, of seed oats at reduced prices.