HC Deb 08 July 1919 vol 117 c1614
78. Major M'KENZIE WOOD

asked the Secretary for Scotland whether, in view of the numerous recent sales of estates to land speculators, he will introduce legislation to give to all farmers the same rights of security of tenure, compensation for improvements, and fair rent, which arc given to small landholders or statutory small tenants under the Small Landholders (Scotland) Act, 1911?

The SECRETARY for SCOTLAND (Mr. Munro)

I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to what I said on this subject last Thursday in reply to the hon. and gallant Member for Kincardine and West Aberdeen.

Major WOOD

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that as a result of these speculations farmers have been turned out of farms which have been in their families for long periods?

Mr. MUNRO

The situation, I know, is rather a difficult one, but my hon. Friend the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture, has promised to make a statement at an early date.

Lieut.-Colonel MURRAY

Does the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture speak for Scotland, and will his statement include the question so far as it relates to Scotland?

Mr. MUNRO

I cannot say that, but if it does not cover the case of Scotland, I will see if a statement can be made.