HC Deb 20 March 1911 vol 23 cc4-5
Sir GILBERT PARKER

asked the Parliamentary-Secretary to the Board of Agriculture if he could now state the terms of reference of the committee appointed to inquire into the position of tenants under the Small Holdings Act of 1908; and whether it will include acquisition of their holdings by existing tenants?

Sir E. STRACHEY

As regards the terms of reference, I would refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave on this subject, to the right hon. Gentleman the Member for the Bordesley Division of Birmingham on the 15th inst. It would be competent, I think, for the Committee to consider whether further facilities should be afforded to enable tenants to purchase their holdings on the occurrence of any change in their ownership.

Mr. GEORGE ROBERTS

asked whether any representations had been received with regard to the composition of the Departmental Committee appointed to consider the effect on farm tenants whose holdings have been sold; and whether steps will be taken to secure more adequate and proportionate representation on the Committee of the interests of the small holder?

Sir E. STRACHEY

Yes, sir; but it appears to the Board that the size of the holding has no special bearing on the question to be considered. The Committee already consists of twelve Members, and any increase in its numbers in the direction suggested would make it difficult to resist the further demands for representation upon it which have been made. In these circumstances the President regrets that he does not see his way to meet the wishes of my hon. Friend. He is satisfied that the interests of small tenants and of allotment holders will be carefully watched not only by the hon. Member for Carnarvonshire and the late Member for North Northamptonshire, both of whom possess special knowledge of their circumstances, but by the Committee as a whole.

Mr. CHARLES BATHURST

asked whether the Departmental Committee appointed to consider the position of farm tenants on the sale or devolution of agricultural estates will hear evidence or suggestions from either individuals or representatives of agricultural organisations before drawing up their report?

Sir E. STRACHEY

I do not doubt that the Committee will adopt the course suggested.