HC Deb 11 July 1911 vol 28 cc189-90
Mr. PRETYMAN

asked if the right hon. Gentleman would state why the staff of the Land Valuation Department are employed in counting the trees in the hedgerows and plantations in the rural districts; and what will be the total cost to the nation of this operation?

Mr. HOBHOUSE

The valuation is being made in accordance with the provisions of the Finance (1909–10) Act, 1910, and its total cost was indicated by my right hon. Friend, the Prime Minister, on the 11th of August, 1909.

Mr. PRETYMAN

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether there is anything in the evidence required which necessitates the counting of the trees in the hedgerows and plantations?

Mr. HOBHOUSE

I am not aware that they are doing that. I see the assertion in the question, but no information has been conveyed to me that the statement is accurate.

Mr. PRETYMAN

Will the right hon. Gentleman inquire whether my information is accurate or not, and does he not think it would have been better to have made the inquiry when notice of the question was given four or five days ago? Does the right hon. Gentleman not think that the House will want to know whether this statement is accurate or not?

Mr. HOBHOUSE

I have not only no information, which leads me to believe that the information is accurate, but I cannot believe that the Treasury staff, who are so extremely well acquainted with valuations, would do anything so foolish as that stated in the question.

Mr. PRETYMAN

Will the right hon. Gentleman allow me to direct his attention to the north part of Lincolnshire, in order that he may make inquiries in that district? If he does he will find that this operation is going on there.

Mr. HOBHOUSE

Certainly, and if I find that it is being done I shall acquaint the House with great pleasure.

Sir RANDOLF BAKER

Is it not a fact that this has recently been done upon an estate in Dorsetshire upon which Death Duties have been paid?

Mr. HOBHOUSE

There are many estates on which Death Duties have been paid in Dorsetshire, I am happy to say. If the hon. Member will inform me which particular estate he alludes to I will make inquiries.

Sir R. BAKER

I shall be pleased to do so.