HC Deb 21 November 1912 vol 44 cc465-7
44. Mr. LLOYD

asked whether the right hon. Gentleman is aware of the conditions under which Messrs. Cadbury lease land at Adbaston from the Haberdashers' Company; whether Messrs. Cadbury have erected on that land factories and buildings to the value of several thousands of pounds, that no rates or taxes are paid on that land by Messrs. Cadbury, that nothing is paid to the upkeep of the roads leading to the factories by Messrs. Cadbury; whether he received in June last a resolution from the Adbaston Parish Council on this matter; and whether he has so far replied to the resolution?

Mr. H. LEWIS

I have received from the Adbaston Parish Council a copy of a resolution drawing attention to the erection of factories and cottages by the firm referred to on this estate, which I understand is vested in the Haberdashers' Company on a charitable trust, and suggesting that the exemption of the estate from rates and taxes should be abolished. I am advised that the only method of giving effect to this resolution would be by legislation to amend the local Act under which this exemption was granted.

Mr. LLOYD

May I ask whether in view of the heavy burdens which are imposed upon local agriculture on account of the non-payment of rates for this important property the hon. Member will pass some legislation to that effect?

Mr. LEWIS

The question of passing legislation does not rest with me.

Mr. WEDGWOOD

Would it not be better to exempt from rates all the improvements in the parish of Adbaston and elsewhere in order to extend the principle—

Mr. SPEAKER

That is a matter for legislation.

Mr. KEBTY-FLETCHER

Is the hon. Member aware that Messrs. Cadbury are able to pay rates to the local authority and taxes to the Imperial Exchequer, as a few years ago they made a fortune out of sweated slaves?

Mr. STANIER

Can the hon. Member state what Charter or Act confers these privileges?

Mr. LEWIS

It is an Act passed in the twelfth year of the reign of King Charles II.