§ 20. Mr. T. Williamsasked the Attorney-General whether he is now in a position to say when legislation will be introduced to deal with the question of leases on business premises, where, as a result of evacuation or other emergency reasons, the value has seriously deteriorated and the leaseholder is incapable of meeting his obligations?
§ The Attorney-General (Sir Donald Somervell)The question whether there is to be legislation upon the subject referred to by the hon. Member is under consideration.
§ Mr. WilliamsCan the right hon. and learned Gentleman say when we are likely to know the decision of the Government on this very important question?
§ The Attorney-GeneralI quite agree that it is a very important question, but I am afraid that I cannot possibly give a date. The hon. Member will, I am sure, appreciate that these and analogous questions do raise very difficult points of principle in connection with any possible legislation.
§ Sir William DavisonWill the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind in considering this matter the question of the payment of rates, because houses of this type have to be emptied and people cannot get any depository which will take the furniture. It is a very serious matter for those whose tenants have been removed and who not only have no rental but have to pay the rates?
§ The Attorney-GeneralI can assure my hon. Friend that all relevant factors will be taken into consideration.