HC Deb 08 December 1932 vol 272 cc1777-8
35. Mr. LOVAT-FRASER

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in view of the rapid urbanisation of the country, he will consider the desirability of granting the same privileges to specified picturesque open spaces as are now granted to pictures, antiques, and other valuable heirlooms in the question of Death Duties?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

I would refer my hon. Friend to Section 40 of the Finance Act, 1931, which provides for the exemption from Death Duties of land given or devised to the National Trust or under certain conditions to the Commissioners of Works or local authorities. My right hon. Friend is not, however, prepared to recommend the extension of the exemption to land which remains in private ownership.