58. Mr. Vaneasked the Minister of Agriculture the advantage which a woodland owner may expect to derive from entering into a covenant of dedication with the Forestry Commission; and whether he appreciates that a system of grants, even when not subject to income tax, is no substitute for a proper price structure.
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§ Mr. T. WilliamsThe Dedication Scheme was agreed upon in consultation with the woodland owners as the best means of ensuring in the national interest the rehabilitation of private woodlands after excessive fellings during the war, and of securing long term continuity of woodland management. These objects are in themselves in the owners' interests, and under the Dedication Scheme the State is bearing by means of grants a substantial proportion of approved net annual expenditure. Loans are also available, and expert technical advice is given free. As regards the last part of the Question, the Dedication Scheme is not intended to be a substitute for what the hon. Member calls a proper price structure. Timber prices are fixed after due consideration of all relevant factors by my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade.