HC Deb 17 December 1945 vol 417 cc927-8
62. Mr. De la Bére

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he will now make a statement to clarify the position in connection with the right of appeal by farmers, who have been dispossessed by the W.A.E.C., to the appeals tribunal, especially as regards this right to veto the recommendations made by the appeals tribunal

Mr. T. Williams

Whilst the final decision in each case must rest with me as the Minister in whom authority to dispossess has been vested under the Emergency legislation, I should naturally, save in quite exceptional circumstances, be prepared to act in accordance with the recommendations of the tribunal.

Mr. De la Bére

Does the right hon. Gentleman really mean to tell the House that he exercises the right of veto over the recommendation of the appeals tribunal?

Mr. T. Williams

Yes, as I happen to be responsible to this House for those decisions.

Mr. Godfrey Nicholson

How many times has the right been exercised?

Mr. T. Williams

The tribunals have not yet commenced to operate.

Mr. Nicholson

Will it be exercised?

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