§ 3. Mr. Digbyasked the Minister of Town and Country Planning, whether he is aware that many persons have, in the past, bought land with a view to development, relying on the fact that it was scheduled for development under the interim planning scheme; that his department are recommending that much of this land should now be included in the rural zone; and what compensation is to be payable to purchasers of such land.
§ Mr. F. MarshallMy right hon. Friend is aware of the position. Under present law these owners, who had no justification for relying on proposed provisions of a scheme which had not come into operation, are not entitled to any immediate payment of compensation, but he hopes, before long, to introduce legislation dealing comprehensively with the question of compensation for restrictions on the use of land.
§ Mr. DigbyIs the Minister aware that many people were shown these provisional schemes by a local authority they had every reason to rely upon, and that they are to suffer financial loss merely because they wanted a home of their own?
§ Mr. MarshallI have already stated that there was no justification for expecting compensation when the planning scheme was in its interim state.
§ Mr. PiratinWill the Minister give an assurance that there will be no sympathetic consideration for speculators in land values?
§ Sir Waldron SmithersIs the Minister aware of a case in my Division where a similar thing has happened? May I send him particulars in view of the preparation of fresh schemes for compensation? Will he give more discretion to the local authorities, especially in the Green Belt, to use some land for development purposes?
§ Mr. MarshallI would not like to commit myself to the last request ma de by the hon. Member. With regard to his other question, I shall be very glad, of course, to receive any communication from him.