HC Deb 11 November 1929 vol 231 cc1526-7
73. Sir K. WOOD

asked the Lord Privy Seal when it is proposed to introduce legislation for the purpose of instituting new methods for the acquisition of land by local authorities and also dealing with the question of unearned increment?

Mr. THOMAS

Legislation on these subjects will be introduced as early as possible. The Government have very fully in mind the importance of this question in relation to the unemployment problem.

Sir K. WOOD

Before this legislation is introduced, will the right hon. Gentle man consult the right hon. Gentleman the Member for Carnarvon Boroughs (Mr. Lloyd George), having regard to his long and varied experience on the matter?

Mr. THOMAS

I should be delighted to include among the experts even the right hon. Gentleman, but I desire to say that I am consulting the Law Officers of the Crown at the moment with a view to speedy legislation. When it is remembered that, although I have sanctioned scores of schemes, at least 30 Bills must pass the House before municipalities can even get on with the work, the urgency will be apparent.

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

Does the right hon. Gentleman propose to alter the procedure under the Town Planning Act in the matter of betterment?

Mr. THOMAS

I cannot give details, but I have asked the Law Officers to prepare the necessary Bill.

Mr. VAUGHAN

Will such legislation be retrospective, so that it can cover expenditure under schemes already sanctioned?

Mr. THOMAS

I cannot give any answer on that point.