HC Deb 30 October 1919 vol 120 cc879-80
65. Major M`KENZIE WOOD

asked the Prime Minister when the Bill to give compensation to farmers dispossessed of their farms will be introduced; and whether the scheme of compensation will apply to existing notices to quit and to future notices given before the passing of the Bill?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I am not yet in a position to state when the Bill referred to will be introduced, nor the nature of the Bill.

66. Mr. J. GARDINER

asked the Prime Minister whether he proposes immediate action to secure in their tenancy farmers who are cultivating their holdings in the best possible manner on estates that have been sold or are being offered for sale, and when notices to quit have been, or are being, served on such farmers; and, if so, will such notices be rendered void?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of AGRICULTURE (Sir A. Boscawen)

The cases referred to will to a considerable extent be met by the provisions of the Agricultural Land Sales (Restriction of Notices to Quit) Act, 1919. I am not yet in a position to say when further legislation for securing tenants from eviction will be introduced, or whether such legislation will have any retrospective effect.

Mr. GARDINER

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the anxiety that exists in agricultural circles, and does he realise the necessity of something being done in order that land should be intensively cultivated, instead of going out of cultivation?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I quite realise the feeling about the matter and the importance of dealing with it quickly. The matter is now under consideration at the Board.