§ 62. Major MACKENZIE WOODasked the Secretary for Scotland whether some of the ex-service men who have received holdings under the Lands Settlement (Scotland) Act, 1919, have not yet had their rents fixed, though they have commenced work upon their land; if so, how many tenants are in that position; and why they have been allowed to incur obligations without knowing the extent of them?
§ The SECRETARY for SCOTLAND (Mr. Munro)The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The number of tenants of the Board whose rents have not yet been finally fixed is 101. The tenants have voluntarily accepted this arrangement, and the Board are required to fix a rent that is reasonable. The adjustment of a rent in the special circumstances is sometimes a complicated matter, but it was thought best to yield to the desire of the men to obtain possession of the land without delay. The rents will be fixed as soon as possible.
§ Major WOODWhat is the reason for the delay?
§ Mr. MUNROThe reasons I have explained in my answer—the complicated questions that arise for decision in many of the cases. First of all, there are the interests of the men you are settling on the land; and, secondly, the interests of the ratepayers, who look for an adequate return for the public money expended.