HC Deb 10 February 1947 vol 433 cc1364-5
19. Mr. King

asked the Attorney-General when he proposes to introduce legislation to end the system of leasehold tenure.

The Attorney-General (Sir Hartley Shawcross)

Consideration is given, as occasion offers, to various proposals for the amendment of the law in relation to leasehold tenure, but I am not convinced that the abolition of this form of land holding, which serves a useful purpose for large numbers of people, would be in the public interest, and there is no present intention of introducing legislation with that object.

Mr. King

Would the right hon. and learned Gentleman not agree that the present system discourages proper attention by those who hold leases and, therefore, is pernicious; and, further, is he not aware that there is a strong feeling throughout the country, and particularly in Cornwall, over this subject?

Mr. Henry Strauss

As Socialists seem to object equally to leasehold tenure and to a man owning his own house, can the right hon. and learned Gentleman say what land tenure they want?

Mr. Hector Hughes

Before my right hon. and learned Friend answers, does he realise that this is a very complicated subject, and will he, before taking any steps, such as that indicated in the Question, consider setting up an expert committee to review the whole subject?

The Attorney-General

The hon. and learned Gentleman will have heard me say that I do not propose to take the step suggested in the Question.

Mr. House

Would the right hon. and learned Gentleman bear in mind that, notwithstanding the difficulties and the humour from hon. Members opposite, there is a tremendous demand in the country for an alteration in the system?

Mr. Manningham-Buller

Will the right hon. and learned Gentleman communicate the views expressed behind him to his right hon. Friend the Minister of Health?