§ Mr. J. Morrisonasked the Minister of Agriculture if he is aware of the increasing felling of hardwood, particularly oak trees, in many hedgerows; and what steps he is taking to encourage replanting of these hardwoods, particularly oak, in the hedgerows and small spinneys of England.
Mr. T. WilliamsI am aware that these fellings are extensive. These trees are, however, usually mature and contribute materially to the timber requirements of the country. It is hoped that many of112W these trees will be replaced by the usual method of allowing sapling's from the hedges to grow up. Grants are not available for replanting hedgerow trees, but for replanting small woodlands and spinneys a grant at the rate of £12 an acre is paid by the Forestry Commission. A grant will shortly be available for planting poplar trees whether in single rows or in larger blocks.