asked the Prime Minister if, in making his recommendation for the appointment of the new chairman of the Forestry Commission, he will take into account the fact that in Scotland and in areas of England and Wales forestry is an industrial crop and also a major employer of labour in certain areas of several rural populations.

In making my recommendation, I shall certainly have regard to the full range of responsibilities the Chairman of the Forestry Commission will be expected to undertake in the country as a whole.