HC Deb 01 March 1945 vol 408 cc1554-5
46. Mr. Butcher

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether his attention has been drawn to the schemes now being prepared for the settlement of their ex-Service men on the land by Australia and New Zealand; and whether he will give an assurance that similar schemes will be available in this country.

The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture (Mr. Tom Williams)

My right hon. Friend is aware of the schemes that are being worked out in certain Dominions for the settlement on the land of returning ex-Service men. Conditions in this country are likely to be very different from those overseas; and my right hon. Friend can give no assurance that similar schemes will be practicable here.

Mr. Butcher

The right hon. Gentleman will appreciate the widespread desire of ex-Service men to cultivate the country that they have defended. Will he remit this important matter to a Committee to advise and assist him?

Mr. Williams

It is much easier to create holdings on new land in our Dominions than in this little island.

Mr. Butcher

Will the right hon. Gentleman give the House some news as to the success of the colony which he administers in the Holland Division?

Mr. Gallacher

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider taking the land out of the hands of private landowners?