HC Deb 29 November 1916 vol 88 cc335-6
72. Mr. LUNDON

asked the Prime Minister if he is aware that both the Congested Districts Board and the Estates Commissioners have under their control pending completion many thousands of acres of land which are solely devoted to grazing purposes; and whether he will introduce emergency legislation for the period of the War giving power to those bodies, or to the Department of Agriculture, or to the new Food Controller, to have such lands temporarily used for tillage purposes under a special scheme which would safeguard the rights of all persons interested in the subsequent redistribution of these properties?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I do not consider that legislation of the nature indicated is necessary; but the question of increasing the area under tillage is being carefully considered by the Department of Agriculture and Technical Instruction.

Mr. LUNDON

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Estates Commissioners have no power to break up untenanted land for the purpose of agriculture?

Sir H. DALZIEL

Can the right hon. Gentleman say why Lord Milner's recommendations are not put into effect?

Mr. BONAR LAW

No, Sir.

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