HC Deb 16 July 1912 vol 41 cc200-1
31. Mr. FELL

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware that in numerous cases the valuation forms Tinder the Land Clauses of the Finance (1909–10) Act, 1910, were returned by the recipients duly filled up in the month of September, 1910, that no acknowledgment has been received for these forms, nor has any step been taken to carry out the valuations; and if, under the circumstances, the owners may consider that the proposed valuation has been abandoned?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

Owing to the great number of valuations to be made under Part I. of the Finance (1909–10) Act, 1910, the conditions mentioned by the hon. Member do in many cases exist. He must, however, be aware from statements made frequently in this House that it was never contemplated that the valuation would be completed in less than five years, of which period more than half has still to run. The answer to the last part of the question is, of course, in the negative.

Mr. FELL

If in any ordinary business transaction you heard nothing about it for two years would you not consider the transaction at an end?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

If the transaction was to be over a period of five years I should not.

Captain CLIVE

Does the right hon. Gentleman expect it to be completed in five years?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

Yes, I think so.

32. Mr. FELL

asked who will pay the extra expense that will be thrown upon landowners in proving the value of their land under the Finance (1909–10) Act, 1910, owing to the delay of the Government in having the valuations made in a reasonable time?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

The general valuation of land under Part I. is proceeding as rapidly as possible and I do not anticipate that extra expense will be thrown upon landowners owing to the period which may elapse before particular valuations are made.

Mr. FELL

Is it not a fact that it must necessarily be more difficult to prove the value after three years than if it was done at the time?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

I do not think so, I think they have a complete record of the position at the time.

Mr. FRED HALL (Dulwich)

When is the whole valuation likely to be completed?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

I have already answered that question.

Viscount HELMSLEY

What does the right hon. Gentleman mean by the completion of the valuation?

Mr. SPEAKER

Any further questions should be put down.