HC Deb 24 March 1920 vol 127 c413
68. Mr. EDWARD WOOD

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture whether, with regard to the scheme that the Government have undertaken having for its object the planting of waste areas in various parts of the country, his attention has been drawn to the fact that considerable areas could be made available out of the residue belonging to the lord of the manor if the commons in the North of England were properly regulated; and whether he will consider the desirability of introducing legislation to provide for the compulsory regulation of these commons, giving due regard to the various interests concerned?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of AGRICULTURE (Sir Arthur Boscawen)

The introduction of legislation as to regulation of commons is under consideration. Provision for the acquisition of common land for afforestation is made in the Forestry Act, 1919.

Lieut.-Colonel MALONE

Will a Clause be embodied in the Bill dealing with the retention of allotments on commons?

Sir A. BOSCAWEN

That is an entirely different question.

Mr. J. JONES

Will the commons be restored to the people?

Major Earl WINTERTON

Before the policy is entered into by the Forestry Commission of taking part of these waste areas, has any effort been made to make a general survey of the areas so available?

Sir A. BOSCAWEN

I think that question should be addressed to the Forestry Commission.

Earl WINTERTON

Should it not be addressed through the hon. and gallant Gentleman?

Sir A. BOSCAWEN

No.