HC Deb 09 February 1937 vol 320 c219
62. Mr. T. Williams

asked the Minister of Agriculture the reason for the withdrawal of the rent rebate to smallholders by the Shropshire County Council and the saving effected thereby; and the average rent per acre paid by smallholders in the same county?

Mr. Ramsbotham

I understand that in view of the improvement which has taken place in the position of the agricultural industry, the Shropshire County Council felt justified in reducing (but not withdrawing) the allowance from the basic rents of their small holdings. The reduction of the abatement is from approximately 10 per cent. to approximately 5 per cent., and it will effect a saving estimated at £1,030 per annum. The average basic rent per acre paid by smallholders in Shropshire (excluding the holders of holdings under five acres, to whom no abatement is made) is, I am informed, £2 8s. 10d.

Mr. Williams

Are we to understand that prosperity is at long last on its way?