HC Deb 08 July 1941 vol 373 cc29-30
49. Colonel Arthur Evans

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what steps the Treasury take when, in the case of a property being requisitioned by the Government and the rent payable by the tenant includes the provision of services by the landlord, the subsequent negotiations which take place between the Treasury and the landlord for an abate of the rent payable by the tenant are not successful?

The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Sir Kingsley Wood)

Negotiations are conducted by the requisitioning Department, not by the Treasury. Departments have no power to compel a landlord to abate his rent if it includes a charge for services no longer required by the tenant, but if they are required by the Department the compensation rent paid to the tenant would be increased in respect of them.

Colonel Evans

In view of the unfair and unjustified burden which has been borne by the tenants in certain circumstances would the Chancellor consider introducing in this House an agreed Bill to correct an obvious fault in the present legal system?

Sir K. Wood

I am, as a matter of fact, taking certain steps to examine this question more fully in discussions between myself and the Law Officers of the Crown.

Mr. Thorne

Would it not be quicker and easier to set up some advisory committee on this matter?

Sir K. Wood

No, Sir, I think my hon. and gallant Friend wants some action taken.