§ Mr. Skeffington-Lodgeasked the Minister of Agriculture to what extent the programme for planting woodlands and
— 1946–47 1947–48 Programme. Actual. Programme. Actual. Planting … … … … 30,000 26,356 43,000 36,160 Acquisition … … … … 121,000 22,322 179,000 29,926 The planting programme for 1946–47 would have been achieved but for exceptionally bad weather, but in 1947–48 shortage of labour, housing and plants were the main limiting causes. Owners have so far been reluctant to sell their land and I do not wish to exercise my powers of compulsory acquisition, at least until they have had an opportunity to consider the Dedication Scheme.