§ 62. Mr. David Adamsasked the Minister of Agriculture whether, with a view to encouraging expenditure upon the latest methods of culture upon war-time allotments, it is intended to extend the period of tenure to that of five years after the end of the war?
§ The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture (Mr. T. Williams)My right hon. Friend has nothing to add to the announcement that was made on 26th February, 1940, a copy of which I am sending to my hon. Friend. I may point out that many holders of war-time allotments have had two to three years' occupation of their land, and unless in exceptional cases the land is urgently required for some other purpose, they are assured of undisturbed possession at least until the end of the war period, which may be some time after the actual cessation of hostilities.
§ Mr. AdamsWhile thanking my right hon. Friend for the information which he has given me, may I ask whether he is 1080 aware of the very strong demand for a further extension of time after the war, and whether the Ministry will consider the matter?
§ Mr. WilliamsI can assure my hon. Friend that the Ministry have constantly in mind doing the best they can for wartime allotmenteers.
§ Mr. StokesWould not a tax on site values put this matter right?
§ Sir Frank SandersonDoes not this Question relate to a scheme which may never come into operation?