§ 61. Mr. Loverseedasked the Minister of Agriculture whether he has reconsidered the case of Mr. T. Hughes of Gorsefield, Broxton, a good farmer who is being ejected by his landlord, Mr. Egerton, despite the fact that a verbal agreement entered into three years ago for the improvement of the farm buildings has not been honoured by the landlord; and whether he will now instruct the Cheshire War Agricultural Executive Committee to take possession of the holding under Defence Regulation 51 and to retain Mr. Hughes in occupation.
Mr. HudsonI have reviewed this case, and I do not consider that the use of my powers under Defence Regulation 51 for the purpose suggested would be justified.
§ Mr. LoverseedIs the Minister aware that Mr. Hughes has received certificates for increased milk production and has thereby proved himself a good farmer, and will he agree that any disturbance of a good farmer in order to put in a man 364 we do not know is likely to prejudice supplies necessary for the life of the community?
Mr. HudsonYes, Sir, but unfortunately the premise on which the hon. and gallant Member's supplementary question is based is not correct.
§ Mr. LoverseedWill the Minister say in what way that is not correct? Owing to the unsatisfactory nature of the reply I beg to give notice that I intend to raise the matter on the Adjournment.