HC Deb 06 June 1972 vol 838 cc59-60W
65. Mr. Milne

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, if he will state the number employed in forestry, tree-felling and associated haulage work in the Forestry Commission in Northumberland and make an examination of the jobs prospects arising from an increased demand for the timber grown in the area.

Mr. Peter Mills

At 1st April, 1972, the number employed by the Forestry Commission on these activities in its Northumberland forests was 180. In addition about 60 workers were similarly employed in these forests by timber merchants, contractors and hauliers.

There are established markets for the output from the Commission's forests in Northumberland for many years ahead, and there is very little scope for increased production. Therefore, even if there was an increased demand for timber from this area, the number of jobs would not be affected in the foreseeable future.