HC Deb 21 March 1929 vol 226 cc1850-1
50. Mr. BELLAMY

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he will state the typical or average rents charged for small holdings under county councils?

The MINISTER of AGRICULTURE (Mr. Guinness)

It is impossible to say what are the typical or average rents charged by county councils for small holdings. Not only does the letting value of the land vary very greatly from one district to another according to its quality and situation, but the equipment also varies both in kind and quantity, many holdings being let as bare land while others are provided with a dwelling house and complete set of farm buildings. To average the rents of all holdings of varying types and sizes would give a valueless and misleading figure.

Sir R. THOMAS

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that the county councils have paid too much for the land and therefore the rents are far too high?