HC Deb 13 March 1871 vol 204 cc1875-6
SIR HENRY SELWIN-IBBETSON

asked Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer, If he is aware that the timber in High Beach, a part of Epping Forest, is being marked previous to being cut down by private people; and, if so, whether he is prepared to take any steps to restrain such action till the question as to the inclosure of Epping Forest has been decided?

THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER

Sir, it is not in my power, even if I were willing, to take any steps in the matter. The House is aware that the Government have no property in the land of Epping Forest, but only certain forestal rights over it. In the part of the forest where they are cutting down the timber even these forestal rights have been extinguished, and the Government has no legal power to interfere.