§ 41. Mr. GRANVILLEasked the Minister of Agriculture if he intends introducing legislation to amend the 1925 Tithe Act?
§ Dr. ADDISONThe answer is in the negative.
§ 42. Mr. GRANVILLEasked the Minister of Agriculture the number of cases of hardship due to excessive tithe payment where the rate is more than three shillings in the pound of the annual value of land; the number of cases heard in the courts where orders for distraining on goods have been made for the nonpayment of tithe; and whether he will appoint a committee to inquire into the whole question of tithe payment?
§ Dr. ADDISONI am aware that in a number of cases owners of agricultural land are complaining of the burden of tithe rentcharge, but I would remind the hon. Member that the liability was in existence when the present owners purchased or inherited the land and the hon. Member must realise that relief could only be obtained either at the expense of the tithe owner or taxpayer. The answer to the last part of the question is in the negative.
§ Mr. GRANVILLEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Ecclesiastical Commissioners are prepared to attend a conference to discuss this question?
§ Dr. ADDISONI was not aware of it. I am glad to hear it.