HC Deb 22 July 1929 vol 230 cc900-1
43. Viscount LYMINGTON

asked the Minister of Agriculture if the Government will set up a commission to reexamine the question of tithes on agricultural land and include in the terms of reference not only the question of the cost of stabilisation, but the unequal incidence of the tithe on different areas of land?

Mr. N. BUXTON

I do not consider that any useful purpose would be served by setting up a commission to consider the question of tithe rentcharge. This subject was exhaustively discussed when the Tithe Act of 1925 was under con- sideration, and, so far as I am aware, no serious difficulties have arisen, since the passing of that Act, in the administration of the law relating to tithe rent-charge.

Viscountess LYMINGTON

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that considerable reference was made to it in the election addresses not only of his party, but of the Liberal party?

Mr. BEAUMONT

Does the right hon. Gentleman think that the present arrangement is satisfactory?

Mr. BUXTON

I understand that the Act is working well and difficulties in administration have not been raised.

Mr. KEDWARD

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that tithe on a good many farms is practically the full agricultural value of the land?

Mr. BUXTON

That is the subject of another question.

56. Sir G. RENTOUL

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether, having regard to the present depression in the agricultural industry, he is prepared to introduce legislation in order to remove or lessen the burden of tithe; and whether he is in a position to state the policy of the present Government in regard to this matter?

Mr. N. BUXTON

The Government is not prepared to introduce legislation on the lines suggested by the hon. Member.