§ Sir R. Glynasked the Minister of Town and Country Planning what steps he has taken to ensure that sub- and top-soil removed to obtain sand, gravel, opencast coal and other minerals are placed in proper order so as to restore the fertility and amenities of the districts thus becoming devastated: and how far his Department cooperates with the Ministry of Agriculture in this.
§ Mr. SilkinThe steps taken for replacement of soil and top-soil vary widely according to the circumstances, but ground which was once fertile is nearly94W always capable of being restored wholly or nearly to its former productivity. The most difficult cases are those in which filling material is required in order to raise the bottom of the quarry above the natural water table. The question of the availability of such material is under active examination. My Department co-operates closely with the Ministry of Agriculture and investigation is proceeding with a view to improving our present methods.