HC Deb 12 August 1909 vol 9 cc646-7
Mr. STAVELEY-HILL

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether his attention has been called to the practice of the Commissioners of Woods, Forests, and Land Revenues only to grant in certain cases new leases to tenants of Crown lands on condition that a largely increased annual rent is paid, a large fine is agreed to be paid, and considerable sums spent on building; and whether, having regard to the views of the Government upon this system, he can say what steps it is proposed to take to amend this procedure of letting Crown properties.

Mr. HOBHOUSE

My right hon. Friend is aware of the practice of the Commissioners of Woods in granting new leases. That practice is in accord with the provisions of the Acts relating to the management of the Land Revenues of the Crown, and it is not proposed to alter it.

Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

Is it not a hardShip on the tenant to have to pay upon the commercial value?

Mr. HOBHOUSE

If the hon. Member had been in the House yesterday at Question-time he would have known that the valuers of the Crown have to make a declaration that the value they put upon the property is the value of the day. I cannot see any hardship upon the tenant paying upon the commercial rate.

Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

Then what hardship is there on the tenant paying upon the commercial value under an ordinary landlord?

Mr. SPEAKER

That question does not arise.