§ Lieut.-Colonel Heneageasked the right hon. Member for Rye, as representing the Forestry Commissioners, whether his attention has been called to the burning of surplus wood in the forests under the control of the Commission; and whether in view of local coal shortage, he will see that there is no waste?
§ Sir G. CourthopeThe Forestry Commission and the Home Grown Timber Production Department of the Ministry of362W Supply in connection with felling operations on Commission areas burn lop and top where such material is unsaleable or of no use for fuel. This action is necessary to clear the land for replanting and, in the case of pine areas, to prevent breeding of pine beetles and pine weevils both of which are serious pests.