HC Deb 28 November 1917 vol 99 cc2007-8
61. Major HUNT

asked whether the proposal announced recently by the Secretary to the Board of Agriculture as to the Government purchasing about. 1,500,000 acres from the Ecclesiastical Commissioners for the purpose of providing our sailors and soldiers with land and small holdings is to be proceeded with at once; and if he will say when legislation for this purpose will be brought in?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of AGRICULTURE (Sir Richard Winfrey)

No such statement as that referred to was made by the Secretary of the Board of Agriculture, but the whole question of the settlement of sailors and soldiers on the land is under the consideration of the Government, and an announcement in the matter will be made as soon as possible.

Major HUNT

Can the hon. Gentleman say why this statement appeared in the " Daily Chronicle "?

Sir R. WINFREY

No; I cannot.