HC Deb 28 January 1929 vol 224 cc593-4
81. Colonel WEDGWOOD

asked the Minister of Agriculture the price paid for the 1,954 acres of land purchased for allotments by borough and district councils during 1925, 192G and 1927?

Mr. GUINNESS

The price paid for the land referred to was £283,027.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied with that price in view of the fact that the 1925 Act was passed in order to facilitate the acquisition of land for allotments?

Mr. GUINNESS

It is impossible to express an opinion upon this price without knowing the details of a great many transactions. Most of these prices were arrived at after valuation by the District Valuer of the Inland Revenue Department, and I have no evidence that they were otherwise than reasonable.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

It is over £100 per acre.

Mr. GUINNESS

Yes, but it must be remembered that they are in urban districts, and they are building plots.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

It is a monstrous price.