§ 48. Sir JOHN SPEARasked the right hon. Gentleman if he is aware of the legal expenses connected with the sale and transfer of land; and if he will, by providing for the registration of title, simplify the transfer and thus reduce the expense of such exchange, thereby encouraging the creation of an increase of the number of owners of land?
§ Mr. LLOYD GEORGEThe whole of this question is receiving the close con- 2107 sideration of the Lord Chancellor, but I can make no statement at present with regard to it.
§ Mr. ROWLANDSDoes the right hon. Gentleman's answer indicate that the Government intend at an early date to take some action upon the Report of the Royal Commission?
§ Mr. LLOYD GEORGEThey certainly propose to take action. I think they are in consultation with various interests concerned.
§ Mr. CASSELIn dealing with the transfer of land will the right hon. Gentleman take into consideration the fact that the cost of transferring land has been increased by his Land Taxes?
§ Mr. LLOYD GEORGEThat is a matter for controversy on the Finance and Revenue Act.
§ Mr. RAFFANIs it not a fact that a larger quantity of land has been transferred to small holders since the Budget was passed than in the preceding years?
§ Mr. LLOYD GEORGEMy hon. Friend is certainly right there. The Stamp Revenue Returns certainly prove that.