HC Deb 17 April 1930 vol 237 cc3085-6
59. Mr. KEDWARD

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether the circular letter which is being issued by Queen Anne's Bounty on the subject of the redemption of small tithe rent-charges was issued with his knowledge and approval; and whether the Ministry, in view of the depressed state of agriculture, will refuse all applications for compulsory redemption of tithe rent-charge on lands used solely for agricultural purposes?

Dr. ADDISON

My right hon. Friend has seen the circular letter to which the hon. Member refers. Its approval by the Minister is not necessary, as it is issued on the sole responsibility of Queen Anne's Bounty. As regards the second part of the question, every application for compulsory redemption is carefully considered in the light of all relevant circumstances, including any objections that may be made by landowners on the ground of hardship, and my right hon. Friend is not, therefore, prepared to adopt the hon. Member's suggestion.

Mr. KEDWARD

Do the Ministry approve of this particular form of intimidation through this circular, which suggests that, unless they redeem tithe at 22 years' purchase voluntarily, the Ministry, whom they suggest are in the pocket of Queen Anne's Bounty, will tell them to redeem it at 25½ years' purchase; is this method of intimidation approved by the Ministry of Agriculture?

Dr. ADDISON

I am not aware that it is a matter of intimidation. Of course, the authorities of Queen Anne's Bounty are acting within their legal rights, and the Ministry cannot interfere; but, as far as these applications for the redemption of tithe are concerned, a good many cases arise from the splitting up of estates, in which a trivial amount of tithe has to be met. I think that it is very desirable that in those cases, if possible, redemption should take place, for it saves the new owners from being continually harassed and pressed for small sums only.

Mr. KEDWARD

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that demands have been made on small agricultural people for sums of £8, £10 and £15; and, in view of the fact that they are already undercapitalised, and have a job to find the money with which to carry on, why should they be harassed and threatened by Queen Anne's Bounty and by the Ministry of Agriculture suggesting that they have no option in the matter?

Dr. ADDISON

If the hon. Member will send details of cases, I shall be glad to have inquiry made.