HC Deb 21 November 1927 vol 210 cc1410-1
65. Lieut.-Colonel Sir FREDERICK HALL

asked the Minister of Agriculture what steps are being taken for development of Crown lands in and around Bagshot; whether it is intended that the Government shall construct any golf courses there; and, if so, is the undertaking to be financed by the Government or privately?

The MINISTER of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Guinness)

The Commissioners of Crown Lands are developing as a building estate a large area, of land lying between Ascot and Bagshot, which was purchased with that object in view during the last century. To assist the development, the Commissioners have constructed, at the cost of the land revenues of the Crown, two golf courses, which will be ready for play next autumn, and which will then be leased to a club now in process of formation.

Sir F. HALL

Will the Government have any financial interest in the club, and can my right hon. Friend say what are the terms of the lease?

Mr. GUINNESS

The Government will have no financial interest in the club. The establishment of the golf courses, which will be administered by the club, was decided upon as the result of an inquiry by a Departmental Committee. The final terms of the lease have not been agreed, but it will certainly be at an increasing rental as the estate develops.

Sir F. HALL

When the terms are arranged, would my right hon. Friend kindly let me know what they are?

Mr. GUINNESS

Certainly.

Mr. THURTLE

Is this land being developed for the benefit of the wealthy and middle classes, and not for the benefit of poor people?

Mr. GUINNESS

It is being developed as part of the administration of the Crown revenues, in order to bring in an income. The land was bought as a building estate, and I really do not think that this land, so far away from a town, would be particularly suitable for working-class accommodation.

Mr. SOMERVILLE

Have any sites been sold in this district, or let for building purposes?

Mr. GUINNESS

Yes, they have been let for building purposes, but the Crown is not parting with any of the land.

Sir JOSEPH NALL

Is it not the case that this will bring in a revenue to the Crown Lands Department, and will not in any way be a charge on the taxpayer?

Mr. GUINNESS

Certainly, it will bring in a revenue; the Crown lands bring in a very handsome revenue.

Mr. STEPHEN

Is this a case of public enterprise providing golf courses where private enterprise has been unable to do so?

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