§ 32. Captain P. MACDONALDasked the Minister of Agriculture whether his attention has been drawn to the recent cases where farmers' property has been offered for sale on account of non-payment of tithe; and whether he proposes to take any action to alleviate the burden of tithe before the Christmas Recess?
§ The MINISTER of AGRICULTURE (Sir John Gilmour)I am aware that in some cases tithe-owners have been forced to take steps through the County Court for distraint for the recovery of tithe rentcharge due from owner-occupiers, but I am not prepared to introduce legislation to relieve property-owners from their liability to this charge.
§ Captain MACDONALDHas the committee mentioned in Question 31, reported yet?
§ Sir J. GILMOURNo, Sir.
§ 34. Captain KNATCHBULLasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he will arrange for a further conference of tithe owners and tithe payers with a view to bringing about a settlement between the conflicting interests concerned?
§ 31. Mr. LEWISasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he proposes to summon a further meeting of the conference called by the last Minister of Agriculture to consider the question of tithe?
§ Sir J. GILMOURI have duly considered this matter and have decided not to summon a further meeting of the conference referred to.