§ SIR WALTER FOSTER (Derby, Ilkeston)asked the President of the Local Government Board, Whether he will grant a return of the number of cases in which representations have been made to Sanitary Authorities under the Allotments Act, 1887, asking them to take proceedings under the Act, and the number of cases (if any) in which the Sanitary Authorities have, subject to the provisions of the Act, acquired, either by purchase or hire, suitable land to provide allotments, and let such lands in allotments to persons belonging to the labouring population?
§ THE PRESIDENT (Mr. RITCHIE) (Tower Hamlets, St. George's)Looking to the period which has elapsed since the Allotments Act was passed, I think that at present it would be premature to present such a return as is suggested. It will be borne in mind that the time is only now approaching when Sanitary Authorities who desire to acquire land compulsorily can practically take steps for that purpose. I have been informed of a number of cases in which Local Authorities have provided allotments; but one of the chief 1393 advantages which the measure has secured is the stimulus which it has given to voluntary arrangements for supplying allotments for the labouring population.