1909.] 



Report on Afforestation. 



853 



The functions of the Council are defined in the scheme for 

 the administration of the charity as follows : — 



(a) To establish and maintain the institution for the pur- 



poses of affording practical and scientific training 

 for those engaged, or desiring to be engaged, in the 

 industry or employment of horticulture. 



(b) To carry out investigations and research, whether 

 of a practical or scientific nature, into any matters 

 having reference to the growth of trees and plants 

 generally, but especially of fruit trees, shrubs, fruit, 

 vegetables, and flowers, and to investigate and 

 demonstrate the best methods of their cultivation, 

 their habits and leading characteristics, together with 

 the soils and localities in which they may be most 

 inclined to flourish. 



(c) To endeavour to improve existing varieties, or to 



create and introduce new ones. 



(d) To impart information, whether of a practical or 

 scientific character, on all matters connected with the 

 above, and generally to endeavour to promote as 

 far as may be in every way the interests of all con- 

 nected with, or desiring to be connected with, the 

 industry or employment of horticulture. 



(e) Generally to pursue any course incidental or con- 



ducive to the attainment of the objects referred to 

 in paragraphs (a), (b), (c), and (d) of this clause. 



A further Reference was added in March, 1908, to the 

 original terms of reference of the Royal Commission on 

 Coast Erosion, viz., "to inquire whether 

 Report on in connection with reclaimed lands or 



Afforestation. otherwise it is desirable to make an ex- 

 periment in afforestation as a means of 

 increasing employment during periods of depression in the 

 labour market, and if so by what authority and under what 

 conditions such experiment should be conducted." 



A Report * has now been issued by the Commission dealing 



* Second Report (On Afforestation) of the Royal Commission on Coast 

 Erosion, Cd. 4460. Price 6d. 



