HC Deb 19 May 1930 vol 239 cc31-2
67. Mr. EDE

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he will make it a condition in any scheme for the regulation of Epsom Downs that the Epsom Grand Stand Association, Limited, shall restore to the common all land enclosed by them out of the common prior to the passing of the Law of Property Act, 1925?

Mr. N. BUXTON

Pending the receipt of a memorial requesting that a scheme for the regulation of Epsom Downs shall be made, it is not possible for me to anticipate the terms or conditions of any such scheme having regard to the duties imposed upon me by the Metropolitan Common Acts.

Mr. EDE

Will my right hon. Friend look at the maps in the possession of the Ministry showing the number of enclosures on Epsom Downs 100 years ago and to-day, before giving his sanction to any scheme?

Mr. BUXTON

Yes, Sir.

Commander SOUTHBY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that when the present grand stand was built the Grand Stand Association gave nearly seven acres of unencumbered land to the local inhabitants in the same part of the parish?

Mr. EDE

Will the right hon. Gentleman compare the area of the grand stand with the seven acres mentioned?

Brigadier-General BROWN

Will the right hon. Gentleman see that nothing is done to interfere with the Derby?