HC Deb 07 June 1934 vol 290 cc1071-2
33. Lieut.-Colonel MOORE

asked the Minister of Agriculture what was the approximate annual revenue of the Crown Lands Department from Regent Street ground rents in 1913; and what is the amount now annually accruing on that account?

Mr. ELLIOT

The approximate annual revenue from Regent Street ground rents in 1913 was £65,000. The amount at the present time is about £520,000.

Lieut.-Colonel MOORE

Does my right hon. Friend think that it is the proper policy for the Government to raise these rents so substantially to their tenants and yet at the same time by conversion to reduce the income by which the rents have to be paid?

Mr. ELLIOT

It might also be said that up to 1913 the tenants were enjoying £500,000 worth of property for £60,000.

Mr. THORNE

Does the increase in the rents fall to the Chancellor of the Exchequer or to private individuals?

Mr. ELLIOT

It comes to us—my hon. Friend and myself.

Mr. H. WILLIAMS

Is there any private landlord who has made such exactions as the State?