§ MR. R. J. PRICE (Norfolk, E.)I beg to ask the President of the Local Government Board whether he is aware that although a Local Government Board Inquiry was held on the 31st August, 1897, to investigate into the matter of allotments at East Ruston, Norfolk, it was the 15th October before the confirmation of the Order was received; whether he is aware that tenancies in Norfolk commence on Old Michaelmas Day, and that the result of the delay is that the applicants for allotments are compelled to lose an entire year before commencing their tenancy; and what is the reason for the great delay in sending down the confirmation of the Order?
§ THE PRESIDENT OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT BOARD (Mr. H. CHAPLIN,) Lincolnshire, SleafordThe facts as to the date of the inquiry and of the receipt 1351 of the Confirmation Order of the Local Government Board are as stated. After the inquiry, the Inspector had to make his report, the objections to the Order had to be carefully considered, and when a decision was arrived at the confirming order had to be settled and printed. I do not know if these proceedings could have been expedited. But with regard to the question of urgency, I am advised that it is not necessary to delay for a year putting in force the Order for the compulsory hiring as suggested. I may observe that the Order of the County Council for which confirmation was sought was not made by the Council until nearly 12 months after the receipt by them of the representation of the Parish Council.