HC Deb 01 December 1909 vol 13 cc482-3
Mr. GEORGE ROBERTS

asked the hon. Member for South Somerset whether he can now state what action the Suffolk County Council have taken to supply land, under the Small Holdings and Allotments Act, to approved applicants at Walberswick; whether his attention has been directed to the case of one man whose application has been rejected on the ground that he is not of the working class; and if he is aware that this statement is denied by the applicant in question?

Sir E. STRACHEY

There are no approved applicants for small holdings at Walberswick, and so far as we are aware no applicant was refused for the reason mentioned. If, however, my hon. Friend will supply me with any information in support of his statement I shall be very glad to have inquiry made into the matter.

Mr. GEORGE ROBERTS

asked what steps are being taken by the Suffolk County Council to supply land to approved applicants at Wenhaston; if suitable land is available, the only objection being that the rent asked is excessive; and, if so, whether it is proposed to take compulsory powers to acquire the land?

Sir E. STRACHEY

The county council have obtained the offer of a farm of 90 acres to supply the two approved applications at Wenhaston. One of the applicants is willing to take about 23 acres of this land, but the other refuses to take any of it at the rent required. There would appear to be no need for the exercise of compulsory powers in this case, but the matter is to be further considered by the small holdings committee.