HC Deb 04 June 1930 vol 239 cc2158-9
69. Mr. EDE

asked the Minister of Agriculture in how many cases during each of the years 1927, 1928, and 1929 his Department received representations that road construction or road widening proposals would involve the virtual enclosure of common lands; and in how many such instances his Department took action to secure that an equivalent area of land to that enclosed should be added to the common?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of AGRICULTURE (Dr. Addison)

The number of cases in the years 1927, 1928, and 1929, in which this Department received representations that road construction or road widening proposals would involve inclosure of common lands were five, three, and five, respectively. In all these cases provision has been made for the addition of lands of at least equivalent area.

70. Mr. EDE

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he will consider seeking the co-operation of the county councils in securing a survey of the unenclosed common lands?

Dr. ADDISON

My hon. Friend's suggestion will be borne in mind in connection with any legislation dealing with a survey of commons.

Mr. EDE

Is it contemplated that any such legislation, which has been recommended since 1913, will be brought in in the near future?

Dr. ADDISON

I am afraid that I could not give any assurance on that point.

71. Mr. EDE

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he will draw the attention of lords of manors and other persons entitled to the soil of land subject to rights of common to the advantage to the public and to themselves of declaring by deed that Section 193 of the Law of Property Act applies to such land?

Dr. ADDISON

My right hon. Friend will consider the issue of a notice summarising the provision of the Section of the Law of Property Act, 1925, to which my hon. Friend refers.

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