HC Deb 08 December 1947 vol 445 cc781-2
51. Mrs. Ayrton Gould

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he is aware that many allotments which were used to grow fruit and vegetables during the war have been withdrawn by local authorities; and, in view of the present food shortage, will he reintroduce a national allotments policy.

Mr. T. Williams

Local authorities have found it necessary to release some wartime allotment sites when land has been required for special purposes, chiefly housing. The proportion, however, is not large. I have urged local authorities to retain wartime allotments whenever it is at all possible, especially in parks and sports fields. As the contribution of allotment holders to our food supply will continue to be of the highest importance, it remains my policy to maintain and encourage allotment cultivation, preferably on permanent sites.

Mrs. Ayrton Gould

Is my right hon. Friend aware that allotments have been taken away by local authorities because at some future time they will be used for other purposes—as, for instance, housing sites—but that there is no idea of using the ground for other purposes for the next year or two? Will he not send out another circular asking local authorities to give back the allotments for the next year or two wherever that is possible?

Mr. Williams

Circulars have already been sent to local authorities impressing on them that, where existing allotments are taken away, other allotments should be provided wherever possible for allotment holders who have been so displaced. I will send a copy of the latest circular to my hon. Friend.

Mr. Vane

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that many allotments near London were not cultivated at all last year, and that it is a question of cultivating existing allotments before more land is taken?

Mr. Williams

Not in all cases.

Mr. John Hynd

Is my right hon. Friend aware that his answer has not met the point, that a large number of allotment holders are being displaced, but that the allotment sites will not be used for other purposes for an indefinite period; and that, moreover, the losing of their allotments means to the holders a loss of capital, and costs them expense and inconvenience?

Mr. Williams

That is quite contrary to my wishes, and to the advice I have expressed to local authorities throughout the country.

Mr. Anthony Greenwood

Would my right hon. Friend try to persuade the Minister of Works to give the allotment holders in the Royal parks security of tenure for the next two or three years?

Mr. Williams

Perhaps my hon. Friend will put that question to the Minister of Works.