§ 12. Colonel WEDGWOODasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the Government of Palestine intend to change the Ottoman tithe laws on to a fixed average basis: if so, when this change will take place; whether they intend ultimately to change on to a land value basis; and, if so, when is it estimated that this change can take place?
§ Mr. AMERYAs regards the first and second parts of the question, the Government of Palestine is considering the desirability of replacing the present system of assessing tithes on the products of the soil by a system of fixed assess- 1379 ments for a term of years. As regards the remainder of the question, it is possible that on the completion of the work of land settlement a tax on land values will be imposed, but I am unable now to anticipate a decision which cannot properly be taken for some time.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODWill the right hon. Gentleman say when the land registration is likely to he complete?