HC Deb 11 March 1919 vol 113 cc1093-4
91. Lieutenant-Colonel RAYMOND GREENE

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Agriculture whether he is aware that the London County Council has passed a resolution which, if put into operation, will evict the holders of allotments in London County Council parks and open spaces in January, 1920; whether, under the Cultivation of Lands Orders, 1916, the holders of allotments on other lands are entitled to retain their allotments for a period of at least two years after peace is declared; and whether, in view of the desire amongst allotment-holders to continue to cultivate their allotments and of the prices still charged for vegetables, he can take any steps to ensure that the two years' grace should be granted to all allotment-holders in the county of London?

Sir A. BOSCAWEN

I am aware of the resolution referred to, but the allotments in the parks and open spaces stand on a different footing from, the land of which possession has been taken under the Cultivation of Lands Order by the Board or the local authorities acting as their agents. The parks and open spaces were already in the possession of the council, and the provision of allotments in them has been undertaken by the council on their own behalf and at their own expense. The Board think that, in view of the improved food situation and the need of land for recreation and games, the council are justified, in the interest of the public health, in their decision that the allotment-holders in the parks and open spaces cannot retain their plots after the end of this year.

Lieutenant-Colonel GREENE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the London County Council has received a large number of communications from different societies and individuals protesting against the parks and open spaces being used for allotment purposes, because they are depriving the children of London of the necessary recreation, and will he see that steps are taken to restore the land for the children as soon as possible?

Sir A. BOSCAWEN

Yes, that is what we are doing. We have supported the London County Council in their decision that allotments cannot be permitted in the-parks and open spaces held for the benefit of the public.

An HON. MEMBER

Will any compensation be paid?