HC Deb 20 June 1944 vol 401 cc24-5
55. Captain Prescott

asked the Minister of Town and Country Planning whether, in view of the pledge repeatedly given that land to be compulsorily acquired for public purposes would be paid for at values not exceeding those at 31st March, 1939, he will bear in mind that since that date and the outbreak of war land has changed hands at prices exceeding 31st March, 1939, values; and whether it is intended that the public shall have to pay those increased prices.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Town and Country Planning (Mr. Henry Strauss)

I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the terms of the Bill which is being presented to-day.

Sir H. Williams

Is my hon. Friend aware that the Chancellor of the Exchequer is in the habit of taxing land, and the estates of people who are dead, on current prices, and not on the value at 31st March, 1939?

Captain Prescott

Will my hon. Friend beware of the Ides of March, in this connection?