§ Mr. WHELERasked whether it is competent for an owner of minerals which were not comprised in a mining lease in April, 1909, to supply one figure as his value of his whole mineral property under 1745 Clause 22 of the Finance (1909–10) Act, 1910; and, if not, to what extent are separate and independent valuations required?
§ Mr. LLOYD GEORGEThe question raised by the hon. Member is one on which the Commissioners are taking legal advice.
§ Mr. WHELERMight I ask whether the advice of the Law Officers of the Crown has been given, because the matter is of considerable importance?
§ Mr. LLOYD GEORGEI agree the question is of considerable importance. It has been referred to the Law Officers for their opinions, and I will do my very best to get their answer as soon as possible.
§ Mr. WHELERasked whether an owner of minerals, when making a valuation under Clause 22 of the Finance (1909–10) Act, 1910, of minerals not comprised in a mining lease in April, 1909, is to assume that such minerals can be worked without regard to the support for the surface, or whether this point of valuation is to be considered when the valuation of the surface is made?
§ Mr. LLOYD GEORGEIt is open to a person who is the owner of land and also of the subjacent minerals to assume such reasonable restrictions either for the benefit of the surface or of the minerals as he may think best, and the Commissioners, are prepared to deal with estimates of the value of minerals made on this basis, provided that any restrictions so assumed are notified to the Department.