HC Deb 14 December 1911 vol 32 c2524
Mr. WEBB

asked the Secretary to the Treasury whether his attention has been called to the demand by the Commissioners of Woods and Forests for 30s. per perch for land for erecting a new school at Five Acres, near Coleford, Gloucestershire; and whether he will endeavour to obtain some reduction of this charge?

Mr. McKINNON WOOD

The price asked by the Commissioners of Woods is considered to be the fair market value of the land required for the school, and is at the same rate per perch as that recently paid on a scale of other land close by.

Mr. C. BATHURST

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the price of £240 per acre is far in excess of what is being paid for similar property to private landowners in the district, and whether for purposes of public utility the Crown cannot make gifts in such cases as other landowners do?

Mr. KING

Is not this figure a great deal less than the Duke of Northumberland charged in similar circumstances?

Mr. McKINNON WOOD

I do not know what the Duke of Northumberland charged. My information is that this is at the same rate as all other lands close by.

Sir RYLAND ADKINS

Would the Commissioners of Woods and Forests be prepared to submit the question of price to arbitration?

Mr. McKINNON WOOD

I must have notice of a question like that.