14. Mr. Astorasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what restrictions cm the mortgaging of agricultural land are in existence in the Colonial Empire; and whether he can give details as to the principles involved and the methods by which they are enforced.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs (Mr. Emrys-Evans)I have been asked to reply. No comprehensive account is at present available concerning restrictions on the mortgaging of agricultural land in the Colonial Empire. The subject is complex, and there are immense variations in the different dependencies according to the nature, of the title to land. Where freehold exists there are, generally, no restrictions on mortgage, but the general trend of policy is now against the issue of freehold titles. Land in tribal areas is normally subject to restrictions; the principle of the restriction is generally that such land should not pass out of the possession of the native communities concerned.
Mr. AstorIs it not a well-established precedent of legislation in the Empire that there are restrictions on the mortgage of agricultural land, and not on agricultural leases?
§ Mr. Emrys-EvansThere are restrictions in one or two cases.
§ Sir J. Wardlaw-MilneAre there not definite restrictions, in certain Colonies, such as Uganda?
§ Mr. Emrys-EvansI do not know about Uganda, but there are in Zanzibar.