DEPUTATION TO THE RIGHT HON. T. M'KINNON WOOD, I 3 



opinion. I notice that no one here has any alternative to 

 suggest of a forest that could be purchased. 



"Now with regard to the money. The Development Commis- 

 sioners, it has always been understood, are prepared to give 

 money for forestry development in Scotland, as in England and 

 Ireland ; and I understand that, apart from this question of a 

 demonstration area, they have under consideration a plan for 

 assisting forestry which is nearly ready to be published, but 

 which has not yet reached a form in which it can be put 

 before me ; so that I cannot discuss it. I want to show you 

 that the matter has not been lost sight of or neglected. 



" In its nature, it takes some time. We are providing a scheme 

 that is to last a long time. We want to be careful to start on 

 right lines. I think I have dealt with all the points you put to 

 me. I should only like to thank you for the information and 

 views you have put before me, which I will take into careful 

 and respectful consideration." 



Captain Stirling. — "We believe at the present time forestry 

 has practically no stafif under the Board of Agriculture, and it is 

 quite incapable of dealing with such developments. We desire 

 a separate State Department for dealing with forestry." 



Mr M'Kinnon Wood. — "At the present time, if any landlord 

 wants advice about afforestation we have Dr Nisbet who can 

 advise him. I think you are quite right. Captain Stirling. 

 When the Development Commissioners have made up their 

 minds how they will supply money for this purpose of assisting 

 forestry then will be the time to create a staff. I quite agree 

 with you ; there ought to be a Central Staff." 



Mr Buchanan.— " Mr M'Kinnon Wood, I am sure we are 

 very much indebted to you for the attention you have given to 

 the deputation, and in the name of the Council and deputation 

 I have to thank you for your kindness in meeting us here to-day, 

 and to say that any assistance you may require from the Society 

 hereafter in the work we have very much at heart, we will be 

 very pleased to give you." 



Mr M'Kinnon Wood. — "I am very much obliged to you, 

 gentlemen. I am obliged to you for saying that if I want any 

 information or guidance from you, you will allow me to come 

 to you." 



The deputation then withdrew. 



