47. Major NEWMANasked the Prime Minister whether his attention has been called to the amount of land that is being 709 disposed of by its owners owing to the price obtainable; whether he is satisfied that the effect of such sales will not make the acquisition of land by the State or local authority for the purposes of colonisation and settlement after the War difficult and more expensive; and, if he is not satisfied, does he propose to take the necessary precautions either by special enactment or by Regulation under the Defence of the Realm Act?
§ Mr. PROTHEROMy right hon. Friend has asked me to answer this question. The whole subject of the acquisition of land for the purpose of colonisation and settlement of ex-Service men after the War is receiving very careful consideration, and the Government are fully aware of the position in regard to present sales of land to which the hon. and gallant Member draws attention.
Major NEWMANBefore land changes hands now is it inspected by any Government inspector to see if it is good land for colonisation?
§ Mr. PROTHERONo, Sir.
§ Mr. BILLINGMay I ask the Leader of the House whether it is possible for any British subject to purchase land in this country?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI must have notice of such a question.